| So you've grabbed the cheapest bottle you could | | | | favor and only try wines for the first time when |
| find on the shelf, and you're heading for the | | | | you're home alone. Trying out a new wine on |
| checkout. Does this mean you've found a great | | | | company, or taking it to a party, could be a |
| wine value? | | | | disaster! |
| No. Finding wine values involves a lot more than | | | | You can also choose varietal wines that are |
| that. Of course, picking the most expensive bottle | | | | traditionally less expensive. For example, a bottle |
| on the shelf doesn't mean you've chosen a quality | | | | of Pinot Blanc will often be less expensive than a |
| wine either. | | | | bottle of Chardonnay. So don't always be too |
| So what does that mean for people like you and I | | | | quick to look at the more popular varietal wines. |
| who are just trying to get the best quality for | | | | They can cost you more. Most of the less |
| the least amount of money? How can you get | | | | popular varieties are still great wine values. |
| the most bang for your buck? | | | | And don't be stuck on just buying American |
| First of all, avoid the extremes. Ignore the bargain | | | | wines. Check out the wines from Australia, Chili, |
| basement brands, because these cheap wines will | | | | Canada and beyond. Or if you have some small |
| likely taste less than palatable. And if you don't | | | | local wineries, why not see if they have |
| have the money, don't be tempted to buy any of | | | | something to offer? Choosing from a larger |
| the overpriced snob wines either. Stick to the | | | | selection will just increase your chances of finding |
| middle ground, where you are bound to find some | | | | great wine values. |
| great deals. | | | | However, there is an easier way! Someone has |
| Experimentation is always a good idea when it | | | | already done all the experimentation and come up |
| comes to your wine selections. But do yourself a | | | | with a list of great, inexpensive wines. |