Red wine lovers have a lot to cheer about right now. It is not only being promoted as a heart-healthy diet, but vineyards are also reviving lost varietals from Argentina to Sardinia. The ultimate equalizer between life's demands and the need for downtime is a nice glass of red wine at night. Many highly-rated wines are actually quite affordable, so finding a great bottle doesn't require a big investment. Red wine is long considered to be among the "healthier" choices of alcoholic beverages, since it helps regulate cholesterol levels, keeping the heart strong. Red wine contains polyphenols, which prevent unwanted clotting by keeping blood vessels flexible.
Grape juice left in contact with the skin gives red wine its color. The rest depends on the grape, the terroir, and the winemaker: red wine can be fruity or dry, full- or light-bodied. There's a Côtes du Rhône from France that's easy to drink and has a juicy New World Cabernet Sauvignon. According to research, a compound in red wine has similar health benefits to following a low-calorie diet and exercising regularly. In aging, resveratrol preserves muscle fibers. There has been a link between resveratrol and reduced cancer risk in previous studies. One of the best things about this benefit is that it isn't expensive. The following list contains inexpensive and easy-on-the-pocket red wines.
Highlands 41 Black Granite Red Blend 
Vineyards are considered the best place to make wine at Highlands 41. Paso Robles is the heart of their vineyards and they exclusively use fruit grown on their estate. This amazing fruit allows them to create wines that are the purest expression of Paso Robles. The spirit of adventure and exploration is at the core of Highlands 41. There are only the best lots available in Highlands 41 Black Granite, from the estate vineyards. To allow the true expression of the soil and climate, small lots are handpicked and fermented individually. Handcrafted French and American oak barrels are used to mature the wines. In order for future generations to enjoy their planet, they protect and preserve it. With notes of spice and vanilla, their handcrafted artisan blend reveals ripe raspberry and blackberry flavors. This wine is a great accompaniment to wood-grilled ribeye steaks and smoked brisket.
Meiomi Pinot Noir
Its complexity is owed to its diverse origins, which combine grapes from California's most renowned wine-growing regions. Due to its unique aging process and meticulous attention to detail, Meiomi® Pinot Noir offers structure and depth rarely found in Pinot Noir. The wine has a rich garnet color and a ruby edge, with lifted strawberry and jammy fruit aromas and notes of mocha and vanilla. The palate is complex and deep, with boysenberry, blackberry, dark cherry, juicy strawberry, and toasty mocha flavors. Pinot Noir's structure and depth are enhanced by well-integrated oak. In the native language of the Wappo and Yuki tribes, Meiomi means "coast", and represents the origin of this Pinot Noir. The fruit sources that comprise Meiomi's blend shape the wine more than anything else. Perfect with pasta, appetizers, pork, chicken, and spicy foods.
Fratelli Antonio & Raimondo Langhe Nebbiolo
In 1938, Antonio and Raimondo Levis founded the Winery, which is named after them. The Langhe region was a perfect fit for them because both were passionate about the Nebbiolo grape. "Quality at any cost" was the brothers' driving philosophy, and they worked tirelessly to achieve it. Since they were both hearings impaired, their ambition to make quality wine was even stronger. Due to Raimondo Levis' passing in 2002, Antonio joined forces with the renowned Sartirano family which has made wine in the region since 1871. While maintaining Fratelli's ideals of producing honest, classically styled wines, the Sartirano Family takes care of all aspects of winemaking. There is no chemical fertilizer in the vineyard. Harvesting and sorting are rigorous. The grapes are de-stemmed and crushed and fermented in stainless steel tanks. 8 days maceration on the skins with daily pump-overs. Minimally filtered and aged in second-hand oak for 8 months. Combines well with beef and mushroom.
Boutinot Uva Non Grata Gamay
Gamay was historically downgraded in Burgundy while Pinot Noir became the ascendant grape. In the hills northwest of Lyon in eastern France, Gamay grows well in granite/siliceous soils. Freshness was preserved by hand-picking the grapes early. Traditional carbonic maceration techniques are used in the cellar for this lighter style of wine, to preserve the upfront, juicy fruit character. Serve with chicken or turkey. Finely chopped, roasted fennel, onion, and garlic topped with parsley and Pecorino Romano cheese made a fine companion to the pasta dish.
Château de Terrefort-Quancard Bordeaux Supérieur
Since 1891, the Quancard family has owned Château de Terrefort-Quancard. Designed by a family from the nobility of Bordeaux in the 16th century, the Château is a witness of great alliances and destinies that have shaped the history of Bordeaux. Gustave Eiffel was facilitated in building the bridge at Cubzac by his active intervention as a peer of the realm. The 45th parallel is exactly at the center of the Equator and the North Pole, marking the boundaries of the Château's vineyard, the world's greatest vineyards. The vineyards at Château de Terrefort-Quancard benefit from a temperate, oceanic climate, so they produce exceptional wines. The color is deep; the bouquet is open and well-developed, with hints of elegance. With good tannins, the palate is rich, harmonious, and well-structured. An elegant wine with a generous body. Suitable for red meats as well as soft cheeses.
Mastroberardino Irpinia Aglianico ‘Re di More’ 
Among the highest enological vocations in Campania, the Mastroberardino is the beacon of Irpinia viticulture. Piero Mastroberardino, after the family's consensual separation, invested heavily in the vineyards and achieved excellent quality results, thanks to a strong family tradition and his outstanding skills. Campania's Mastroberardino family was responsible for preserving ancient grapes from extinction. So far, they have even replanted a vineyard in Pompeii's ruins with grapes so that they can produce wine the way it was in ancient times. Their passion for their land is evident in this Aglianico (grape). The Aglianico of Ipirnia comes from the quiet DOC of the hinterland, and it is as rich as history. There are notes of bramble fruits and tobacco on the nose (like a tobacco shop). Tannins are well-integrated on the palate, making it a perfect pair with steak or past.
Rodei Tinto 2020
Tempranillo and Garnacha grapes are the most popular red grapes in Rioja in Northern Spain. Spain's top wine region, second only to Jerez in fame, is undoubtedly Rioja. Grapes grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides are used to make certified organic wine. Authenticated in the country of origin. This Rioja is vibrant and fruity, with fresh aromas of blackberry and bright acidity. Rioja wine is made from 100% Tempranillo that has been de-stemmed and fermented with native yeasts. This wine comes from Rioja Baja, a mere five-hectare estate located 700 meters above sea level. Excellent with everything from schnitzel to lasagna to roasted bass. With the slightest chill, this drink is best enjoyed on its own. No aging.
Cataclysm Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
As The lake Missoula glacial dam would periodically burst during the last ice age, releasing 400-foot walls of water that lashed the Pacific Northwest. Floods destroyed everything in their path and reshaped the landscape. A new life arose from this upheaval. During the flood, soil and sediment were washed away from the land, pooling and eddying through the Columbia Valley, leaving nutrient-poor, but well-drained soil. Eastern Washington's reliable sunshine and wide temperature swings make it nearly perfect for grape growing. Earth's forces continue to shape and reshape Cataclysm. Featuring earthy minerals and concentrated dark fruit, this full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the beauty of the Pacific Northwest region. Rich tobacco and herb notes mingle with bramble berries and deep plums. Cherry and currant flavors are complemented by pencil lead, vanilla, and spice. Robust Washington State Cabernet with a complex flavor profile. Perfect for steak dinners and cheese nights.
Mezzacorona ‘Dinotte’Red Blend 
It takes patience to grow red grapes on the granitic soils of the Dolomites' inward slopes. These soils provide the unique taste profiles of grapes like Teroldego, Marzemino, and Merlot, resulting from the decomposition of cliffs, glaciers, and the Adige River. A red winemaking method using selected yeasts is used to vinify Marzemino at 75-85°F for 12 to 13 days. A three-year-old French oak barrel is lightly toasted and used for maturing Teroldego and Merlot. It combines two noble Dolomites varieties, Teroldego and Marzemino, with an international varietal, Merlot, for elegance and softness. This wine provides a full-bodied structure with flavors of red currants, blackberries, and blueberries. Marzemino contributes to a soft, velvety, palate-pleasing wine. Merlot is added to the Red Blend to add vanilla and cocoa aromas. Pairs well with savory sauces, baked pasta, and grilled or roasted meats, as well as hearty appetizers and spicy cuisine.
Pinot Noir Buena Vista Vinicultural Society North Coast
As the first premium winery in California, and certainly the most colorful, Buena Vista Winery has been in business since 1857. Count of Buena Vista Agoston Haraszthy, its founder and self-proclaimed leader, was a vivacious and eccentric pioneer who had a true love of California wine and an unfailing commitment to it. When this area was just being explored as a wine-growing location after the gold rush, Buena Vista Winery was one of the first wineries to pop up. The North Coast is once again the focus of Buena Vista Winery, whose roots run deep into California's coastal appellations. Buena Vista's contribution to California's wine world is celebrated with the diverse array of varietals on the North Coast. This wine is an absolute steal for the price. On the nose, this wine has bright berry fruit with no oak and a nice earthy note. The wine is overall very well-balanced, and it's a fine choice for a weeknight dinner.
Domaine Marcel Lapierre Raisins Gaulois
In Beaujolais, Domaine Lapierre is located in Villié-Morgon. At the beginning of the century, the grandfather Michel Lapierre moved to Villié-Morgon as cellar master at "Domaine des Chênes". In the wake of the Second World War, his son Camille succeeded him. In 1973, Marcel Lapierre took over the farm, which at that time totaled 7 hectares, with a clientele built up by his father. Taking inspiration from Jules Chauvet, a renowned researcher at the University of California, Marcel Lapierre began vinifying without sulfur or yeasting in 1981 and cultivating his vines in Biodynamy without chemical fertilizers or herbicides. The estate is still energetic despite his passing. 16.5 hectares of Gamay grapes (average 70 years old) cover the entire vineyard. "Raisins Gaulois" cuvée is made from Gamay vines grown on granite surfaces. Maceration lasts four to six weeks with semi-carbonic vinification. 2 months in vats produce a fruity, floral, and spicy flavor. It tastes like cranberries, violets, and soil. It's beautiful. Suitable for burgers, tacos, and light vegetable curries.
Bacchus 'Ginger’s Cuvée' Pinot Noir
As a tribute to his daughter, Ginger, director David Gordon sourced grapes from the finest California vineyards. Since 1990, David Gordon has served as the Wine Director at Tribeca Grill. A few years ago, he began producing wine under the Bacchus label using his contacts in Napa and Sonoma. The fruit was provided by Caymus, Lewis Cellars, and Miner Family. Tribeca Grill, Nobu, and Montrachet were the only places to sell the small batches. With fruit aromas of raspberry, pomegranate, and cherry laced with spice and earth, this California Pinot is light to medium-bodied. The wine is balanced and easy to sip alone but will pair nicely with lighter dishes. Whether you're baking salmon, roasting chicken, or roasting duck, this wine pairs well with everything. With its light tannins, it makes a great wine for fish and cheese plates
Januik Merlot Columbia Valley
As the winemaker of Washington's best Columbia Valley vineyards for 35 years, Mike Januik produces elegant, balanced wines reflecting the region's unique geography, climate, and soils. With each label reflecting the vineyards that define it, Mike remains true to the principle of place that has guided him since 1984. Experience the Columbia Valley for yourself by tasting the wines of Januik, Novelty Hill, and Andrew Januik. There are layers of black cherry, boysenberry, and plum notes in the nose that translate to fleshy black fruit and chocolate flavors on the palate. This wine needs at least 10-15 years to mature gracefully due to its superb texture and length. Klipsun, Champoux, Obelisco, and Bacchus vineyards are used in their Columbia Valley Merlot. Well-managed vineyards provide a full range of fruit expression which enables them to produce rich, multi-layered wines true to both Columbia Valley terroir and the varietal character of the grapes. It goes well with roasted vegetables, spiced meats, and all things grilled.
Fèlsina Berardenga Chianti Classico
The estate's production is centered around Chianti Classico. Castelnuovo Berardenga is southeast of Siena, in the southern part of the Chianti Classico appellation. A 1967 vintage. Stainless steel fermentation and maceration in stainless steel for 12-15 days at 28° and 30°C, with daily punch downs and pump overs, follows the de-stemming and pressing of quality clusters. New wine is aged in medium-sized Slavonian oak barrels for 12 months, and a small percentage in twice- and thrice-used oak barrels for a further three months. Red with deep intensity and hue. Wild berries dominate the aroma, along with spicy notes. An elegant wine with good tannins and a lingering finish. You can pair it with Margherita pizza and homemade pasta ragu.
Santa Julia Organic Malbec
The Santa Julia brand is one of the most emblematic Argentine wine brands around the world. Mendoza produces modern wines with the quality and diversity of its land. There is a diverse selection of grape varieties at Santa Julia, including Malbec, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but also Viognier, Pinot Grigio, and Tempranillo. Made with Organic Grapes by Santa Julia represents their aim of emphasizing organic agriculture, and peacefully living together with nature. Varietal notes of ripe fruits and figs on the nose. Figs, jam, and raisins. Acidity and tannins are well balanced. With selected yeast from their vineyard. Goes well with pasta, mushroom, beef, and Pork.
Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
The first wine Josh Cellars made was Cabernet Sauvignon. With this cabernet red wine, the brand set high standards for all varietals to follow. Founded by Joseph Carr and named after his father, Josh Cellars produces high-quality, well-balanced, delicious wines as an expression of gratitude grounded in hard work, high standards, and recognition. Those who matter should drink Josh's wine. Blackberry, toasted hazelnut, cinnamon, and vanilla flavors complement Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, a California wine. Wine of great character and complexity is sourced and crafted by Josh Cellars from California's best growers. It goes well with seasoned meats such as beef, pork, lamb, and chocolate desserts.
Decoy California Cabernet Sauvignon
Founded by legendary vintners Dan and Margaret Duckhorn more than 30 years ago, Decoy has deep roots. Duckhorn Vineyards has been exploring the complexity of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon since 1978. Incorporating the expertise of their winemaking team, Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted to be ready to drink immediately upon release. There are layers of black cherry, ripe plum, cranberry, and tapenade in this wine, along with oak-inspired flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, and cardamom. Silky, mouthcoating tannins accentuate the generous berry flavors, and juicy acidity adds poise and energy to a long, satisfying finish. It goes well with beef, duck, and game birds.
Vietti Barbera d’Asti
La Crena vineyards in Agliano Terme, as well as several other villages in the hills around Asti, provide the grapes for the wine. There are 4,500 plants per hectare on average. Cold maceration precedes alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel for approximately two weeks, with frequent pumping over and delestage operations every day. Following fermentation, the skins are macerated. Barriques are used for malolactic fermentation after the wine has been racked. Featuring notes of mineral and vanilla, this wine is ruby red in color. An excellent wine for the whole meal with a medium body, dry taste, and crisp acidity. It has a good balance and a nice cherry finish, with a good level of complexity. Serve with appetizers, rich salads, grilled seasonal vegetables, soups, stews, pasta, veal, pork, and chicken with light sauces.
Frescobaldi Nipozzano Chianti Rufina Riserva
A symbol of Tuscan wine growing tradition and of the permanent connection between the terroir and Castello Nipozzano, the historical Frescobaldi estate near Florence is Nipozzano Riserva. Nipozzano 2019 is ruby-red. Elegant floral notes accompany fruity notes of black cherries and berries. Freshness is provided by balsamic notes. Pepper, nutmeg, and coffee are followed by roasted notes. This wine is rich, characterized by elegant density and mineral freshness in the finish that makes it balanced and persistent. A dense tannin structure does not abrade the palate. There is a perfect correlation between taste and smell. It goes well with lamb.
Tenuta Sant’ Antonio Valpolicella
In the province of Verona, Tenuta Sant'Antonio produces the Valpolicella Nanfrè from vineyards in Colognola ai Colli and Mezzane di Sotto. Harvested only by hand, it is mainly made from Corvina and Rondinella grapes. Following a soft pressing, selected yeasts ferment the grapes for 8-10 days. In the same containers, the wine is aged for about 8 months. An intense ruby-red color distinguishes it. It has a slightly spicy nose infused with cherry and red fruit aromas. There is a fragrant, savory body and moderate tannins on the palate. The perfect accompaniment to cold cuts, first courses, risottos, and fish.
Cavit Cabernet Sauvignon
Cavit Collection wines have become savvy wine lovers' favorite go-to source for stylish, elegant, and versatile wines, perfect for any occasion. Cavit produces this stellar range of high-quality, food-friendly wines in Trentino, an area of mountains, lakes, apple orchards, and medieval castles. A dry, balmy breeze that sweeps across Lake Garda protects the fruit in this region from external moisture and disease. Grapes benefit from cool evenings with rich, intense flavors. An industry veteran and top enologist, Anselmo Martini oversees the winemaking. Medium-bodied Cavit Cabernet Sauvignon has flavors of blackberries, cherries, and plums derived from oak aging. It's aged in oak for one year to produce this medium-bodied wine with blackberry, cherry, and plum flavors. It goes well with stews, casseroles, and red meat.
H3 Merlot Horse Heaven Hills
H3 In Eastern Washington, Horse Heaven Hills AVA produces wine. To showcase the high-quality grapes and vineyards of the appellation, H3 wines were created in 2008 as a sister project of Columbia Crest Winery. Horse Heaven Hills wines remain a priority for the H3 portfolio today. The Horse Heaven Hills run along the Columbia River and border the Yakima Valley AVA. There are two unique features of the climate in this AVA: the warm climate allows grapes to fully ripen and lower rainfall allows greater irrigation control. Grape skins are toughened by the wind just enough to keep vines struggling. H3 winemakers and family farm partners are inspired by these growing conditions to produce fruit-forward wines. The soil, the vineyards, and the craft go into every sip. Featuring ripe cherry flavors with earth, cocoa, and spice aromas, this Merlot is rich, velvety, and long-lasting. It goes well with salmon, lamb, wild game, and roasted tomato-based sauces
Bodega Garzon Tannat
Bodega Garzon is located in the scenic territory of Uruguay, where each glass of wine speaks of the country's unique winemaking tradition. Located on terraced lands, the wineries have an innovative design. Furthermore, the natural climate of these hills produces excellent wines every time. With a well-defined character and personality, this delectable wine is made from pure Tannat grapes. Stainless steel tanks and wooden barrels are used for fermentation and aging. With its intense and deep purple color, its nose evokes raspberries and plums, with a spicy finish. There is a marked minerality and ripe tannins in the mouth, making it best suited to represent its terroir. Pair this Tannat with roasted game, such as a leg of lamb in pinzimonio with sage, mint, garlic, and olive oil.
Charles Smith The Red Devil Merlot
After Hollywood's unexpected hit Sideways incited anti-Merlot sentiments worldwide, Charles took it upon himself to combat the film's unflattering portrayals. The bold, sultry taste of this creation will convince you that he has succeeded in making Merlot sexy once again. A merlot wine blend crafted in Washington state offers unique characteristics. In order to make his wines so unique, Charles applies old-world winemaking techniques and respects the way people actually drink wine. A 30-day or more maceration on the skins completes malolactic fermentation without racking. There is velvet, deep and delicious black fruit, cedar, tobacco, and cassis in this Merlot. Pure focus and concentrated richness. It seems the devil made me do it. It goes well with Burgers with all the fixings, Grilled steak, and anything with bacon.
Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau
In the 1960s, Les Vins Georges Duboeuf pioneered the global market for Beaujolais Nouveau by bringing the Burgundian tradition to the global market. His son Franck Duboeuf is carrying on the legacy of his father, Georges Duboeuf. The color is light garnet with violet reflections. The nose is an immediate delight, with aromas of cranberry and red currant. An expression of Nouveau, this vintage is refreshing, fruity, and supple. It has a deep garnet color and a classic Nouveau profile, with aromas of small red and black fruits. Perfectly balanced, the wine is round and delicious on the palate with a long finish highlighting the fruit. Featuring a sparkling, clear rose petal color, the Beaujolais Nouveau Rosé has intense aromas of red berries, citrus fruits, and candy. Refreshing, delicate, and light. Suitable for appetizers, cheese, charcuterie, and poultry.
Catena Malbec
Laura Catena and Alejandro Vigil are fourth-generation vintners and winemakers of High Mountain Estate Vineyards. Mendoza's high-altitude mountain terroir has been explored and studied by the Catena family for decades. A wine of natural balance, concentration, and varietal identity emerges from the marriage of these historic vineyards. There are purple reflections in the Catena Malbec 2019. With its intense aroma, soft texture, and concentrated flavor, this microclimate blend delivers. Violet, lavender, mocha, and vanilla notes join the aromas of ripe red and dark fruits. Blueberries, blackberries, leather, and cinnamon flavors highlight the rich, concentrated mouthfeel. An exceptional length of finish is provided by well-integrated tannins, bright acidity, and flinty minerality. Serve with roast turkey, grilled steak, salmon, and pasta.
By Rashmi Goel
