Hi Everybody!
In celebration of my latest series, Napa Valley, I’m thrilled to share some of my favorite everyday wines that are $50 and under with you. Whether it's unwinding with a glass after a long day or savoring a bottle during a special dinner with family and friends, these wines hold a place in my heart—and on my table! Below are a few of my top picks, along with some of the incredible places where I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying them.
Reds from Napa
When you think of Napa, rich, full-bodied reds are often what come to mind—and for good reason! These wines are luxurious, elegant, and the perfect complement to a delicious meal or an evening of relaxation.
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Far Niente Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon – $50
From the renowned Far Niente winery, Post & Beam offers a more approachable and affordable expression of Napa Valley Cabernet. With flavors of dark cherry, cocoa, and a silky finish, it’s perfect for those looking for a high-quality Napa red without the steep price. -
Decoy by Duckhorn Merlot – $25
If you're looking for a Napa red that won’t stretch your budget, Decoy is a fantastic option. Silky with hints of blackberries and spice, it's easy to pair with a variety of dishes—I've even enjoyed it with pizza on more casual nights. -
Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon – $45
Deep and velvety with notes of blackberry, cassis, and a touch of dark chocolate. This wine is bold yet smooth, and pairs wonderfully with grilled steak or lamb. I remember sipping a glass at sunset while overlooking the vineyards—pure perfection! -
Raymond Vineyards 'R Collection' Cabernet Sauvignon – $20
One of my go-to affordable options from Napa, this wine brings a taste of luxury at a fraction of the price. With flavors of ripe cherry and plum, this one is perfect for those weeknights when you want something special without breaking the bank.
Reds Not From Napa
While Napa is known for its reds, there are some incredible gems beyond the region that deserve the spotlight.
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Folded Hills 'Grant' Grenache (Santa Ynez Valley, CA) – $38
This Grenache is light, bright, and full of juicy red fruit flavors like strawberry and raspberry. It’s a wonderful pick for those who love a more delicate red. I first tasted this at a cozy little wine bar in Los Olivos, and it instantly became a favorite! -
Justin Cabernet Sauvignon (Paso Robles, CA) – $30
Bold and structured with rich layers of dark fruit and savory herbs. This Paso Robles classic is consistently excellent—and at a more affordable price point than many Napa Cabs. It’s one I love to bring out when hosting friends for dinner. -
Melville Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara County, CA) – $38
This Pinot Noir has a graceful balance of red cherry, cranberry, and a hint of spice. It's versatile enough for pairing with anything from roasted chicken to salmon. I love sipping this while sitting by a cozy fire on cooler evenings.
Whites from Napa
Though Napa is often associated with bold reds, its white wines are equally deserving of praise—especially on a warm afternoon.
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Rombauer Chardonnay – $42
A classic Napa Chardonnay, this wine is rich and creamy with notes of buttered popcorn, vanilla, and ripe peaches. It's perfect for those who love a bold white wine. I enjoyed my first glass of Rombauer Chardonnay while picnicking in Napa, surrounded by the golden glow of the vineyards. -
Chandon Brut – $22
While Chandon is primarily known for its sparkling wines, the Chandon Brut is an affordable and refreshing option for those who enjoy a crisp and lively sparkling wine. With flavors of green apple, pear, and a hint of citrus, it’s perfect for celebrations or casual sipping. -
Alpha Omega Sauvignon Blanc – $40
A more affordable white from Alpha Omega, this Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and zesty with flavors of tropical fruit, citrus, and a clean, crisp finish. It’s the perfect white for summer gatherings or pairing with fresh, light dishes. -
Castello di Amorosa Pinot Grigio – $23
This bright and refreshing Pinot Grigio offers notes of lemon, green apple, and a hint of minerality. A fantastic white to enjoy on a warm day or with light dishes like salads and seafood, it's a delightful and budget-friendly option from this iconic Napa winery.
Whites not from Napa
For those looking to expand their horizons, there are plenty of affordable white wines outside of Napa that offer exceptional quality.
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Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – $17
Zesty, tropical, and full of energy, this New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is a crowd-pleaser. Its bright acidity and flavors of passionfruit and lime make it perfect for sipping on a sunny day or pairing with fresh salads. -
La Crema Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast, CA) – $20
Offering balance between fruit and oak, La Crema’s Sonoma Chardonnay is rich without being overwhelming. With flavors of baked apple and subtle vanilla, this is a great white to pair with roasted chicken or creamy pasta dishes. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! -
Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc + Viognier (Clarksburg, CA) – $14
This unique blend is fresh, floral, and a bit off the beaten path. With notes of melon, honeysuckle, and pear, it’s both refreshing and versatile. I’ve enjoyed it on everything from outdoor picnics to backyard barbecues—it’s a fantastic value at under $20.
I hope this list inspires you to explore some new wines and create wonderful memories around the table! Don't forget to check out my latest collection: Napa Valley, hopefully with a glass in hand!
Cheers to good wine, great company, and celebrating the everyday moments that make life so special.
Xx,
Gray