Its a rainy day here in Southern California and I have been dealing with an intense migraine for 4 days!…Yes, 4 days!…Crazy!  I have had a lot of time on my hands.  I thought about how much I miss wine and I couldn’t wait till this migraine was gone so I could get back to drinking it!  lol I also thought about what were my favorites, so I put together a list of my favorite wines under $20 to share with all of you.  I would say I am quite the “expert” and have gone through my fair share of bad wines to finally discover what types, regions and notes I prefer.

So here it is:

1.  Joel Gott – 815 – Cabernet Sauvignon

Notes of: blueberry, cassis, and mocha

There is nothing I like better when its cold outside, then sitting down with a glass of Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon, putting on a fire, and listening to anything from Frank Sinatra on our record player.  It warms my soul!  Also, if you ever find yourself in St.Helena, CA, you have to stop by Gotts Roadside, it is owned by Joel and Duncan Gott.  The food is amazing, and if you go please try the Ahi Poke tacos…out of this world delicious!

2.  Kim Crawford – Sauvignon Blanc

Notes of: bright peach, passionfruit and citrus

After trying numerous Sauvignon Blanc wines, this one is by far my favorite for the price.   It’s clean, vibrant taste makes it a perfect accompaniment to a seafood dish on a summer night!  When in doubt I always go with a Sauvignon Blanc out of New Zealand, they never disappoint me!

3. Freixenet – Extra Dry

Notes of: peach, melon, and candied citrus

I love extra dry sparkling wines, it’s just so refreshing.  Pair this with some chocolate covered anything and you have yourself a real treat for after dinner or before!

4. Smith and Hook– Cabernet Sauvignon

Notes of: blackberries, cassis, black cherry, vanilla and cloves

We discovered this wine at our local Italian family eatery which was carefully chosen as their long standing house wine. Pair this with your favorite bolognese and you won’t be sorry.

5. Santa Margherita– Pinot Grigio

Notes of: citrus fruits

This wine is not too dry, not too sweet, it’s just a perfect balance!  When I am looking for a wine to gift to a friend or someone hosting a dinner, this is my go to wine.  It just pairs so well with so many dishes, and usually satisfies everyones palette.

Enjoy!  You can thank me later!