Yup, it’s that time again. You’ve spent almost every last penny on tuition and textbooks or your kids’ school supplies and wardrobe. The austerity of the scholastic year looms ahead. Whether or not, you personally are hitting the books, the back-to-school squeeze brings out the economizer in all of us. I highly recommend setting aside a small stash for the occasional indulgence.
For as little as $15 or less, a bottle of wine has the potential to offer a ton of pleasure. Besides being cheap though, there has to be enough thrill to compel you to take a second sip. The most inexpensive wines may not possess much in the way of complexity (which is just fine if your brain is on overload) but they should taste good.
It’s not easy snooping out the finest frugal finds. I combed the shelves looking for new labels but also revisited some old favourites. I have to say, the latter wines fared particularly well. They’ve stood the test of time for good reason.
When I do tastings like this, certain countries (namely Chile, Portugal and Spain) always stand out. They deliver tasty wines at highly affordable prices. But if I may add, this isn’t ALL they make. So if you find yourself with extra cash at some point, do try their more premium offerings. In the meantime, when you are picking up last minute school supplies, stop by the liquor store for a cheap thrill.
2013 Count Károlyi Grüner Veltliner • Pannon, Hungary • $10.99, BC Liquor Stores
This lively and characterful white boasts freshly cut lime and stone nuance along with crisp green apple and white grapefruit. Lip-smackingly dry.
2016 Santa Julia, Pinot Grigio • Mendoza, Argentina • $12.29, BC Liquor Stores
Though the wine isn’t new, the packaging is and the latest vintage is vibrant and fresh. Floral and banana aromas give way to lemon and a tangy saltiness.
2015 Carmen, Reserva Viognier • Colchagua, Chile • $12.29 (on sale for $10.29 until Sept. 3), BC Liquor Stores
Appropriately aromatic with classic peach and white blossom aromas, this medium-bodied Viognier is a pleasantly plump but not over top.
Mateus, Rosé • Portugal • $9.79, BC Liquor Stores
An iconic wine for starving students. It has gotten less sweet over the years but still sports pretty red berries and a touch of effervescence. Properly chilled, it’s the perfect Sunday brunch wine before returning to your studies.
2014 Vila Regia • Douro DOC, Portugal • $8.99, BC Liquor Stores
If you like a little structure rather than an obvious fruit bomb, this one’s for you. With black currant, licorice and earthy nuances, the Vila Regia is best with a hearty and economical stew.
2014 La Casona de Castaño, Old Vines Monastrell • Yecla DO, Spain • $8.99, BC Liquor Stores
Straightforward cherry and plum supported by a subtle gaminess and grip. You just can’t argue with it for the price.
2015 La Bastide • Pays d’Oc IGP, France • $11.29, BC Liquor Stores
La Bastide was a staple for me during the years I was paying off my student loans. Mid-weight and juicy with flavours of grilled herbs and raspberry, it still charms.
2013 30 Mile Shiraz • Australia • $13.49, BC Liquor Stores
This tips the scales a bit coming in just over $15 with taxes but it’s worth the “splurge” especially if you favour richer reds. Super minty on the nose with ripe brambly black fruit on the palate. Not sweet; just bold and expressive.
• Prices exclusive of taxes.
