Top Ten Wines

Raise a glass to old friends and new beginnings with affordable, mouth-watering wines to celebrate the season's best moments. Whether you're coming in from the cold, thirsting for nostalgic comfort or starting anew, feel good about grabbing a budget-friendly bottle to make any meal at home this winter an occasion to remember.

Some products may not be available in all stores and are subject to availability and local alcohol regulations.

1. El Coto
   Special Cuvée Rioja

   This toasty wine tastes modern, but its long finish comes from Spain's noble Tempranillo grapes. Hearty cherry-vanilla and plum notes make it perfect for roasted meats or try with sharp El Trigal Manchego or Mahon cheese to give it the flavorful grip that Rioja is known for.

2. Helfrich
   Gewurztraminer

   This floral, spicy standout is the White for Thanksgiving and holiday aperitifs. Bursting with freshness and a rich finish, it toes the line between old-fashioned rose and honey notes and vibrant tropical fruit. Serve with shellfish or spicy Asian food, or for downright buttery results drink with Bavarian Blue or Robusto cheese.

3. Pisato
   Montepulciano
   Made With Organically Grown Grapes

   For turkey and other rich poultry consider this affordable alternative to Chianti with soft tannins and hints of dried fruit. Bold ruby color and dry, silky fresh tomato notes complement Italian food. Superbly creamy with Cabot Clothbound Cheddar aged at the Cellars of Jasper Hill or Parmigiano Reggiano Aged 24 months.

4. Marqués De Riscal
   Rueda Selección Especial

   We bought all of this refreshing, full-bodied Spanish wine, but we'll share! Old-world Verdejo comes alive in a straw-colored wine brimming with fruit and fennel. A huge value, serve as an aperitif or with tapas or roasted chicken. Pairing it with Fourme d'Ambert or Drunken Goat cheese brightens its flavor.

5. Red Truck
   Zinfandel
   Made With Organically Grown Grapes

   Think of this bottle as an old friend in a snazzy new pair of shoes! A balanced, organic California wine, its brambly berries, cracked pepper and dark chocolate finish keep your attention, whether you're eating pot roast or pasta. Wow your taste buds and pair it with Stilton produced by Colston Bassett or Borough Market.

6. Santa Julia
   Bonarda
   Made With Organically Grown Grapes

   With energy conservation and recycling projects, this winery is dedicated to earth-friendly winemaking in Argentina. Juicy berries and underlying spiciness drive this lively wine, making it a savory match for tomato sauce in pizza and pasta. A few bites of Drunken Goat cheese make the wine jump.

7. Los Vascos
   Domaines Barons De Rothschild (Lafite)
   Special Selection Sauvignon Blanc

   We snatched up every case of this bargain Chilean white, bottled by legendary Bordeaux winemakers. Boxwood and exotic fruit with minerality and lean elegance are hints of an extraordinary terroir in the foothills of the Andes. Sip with oysters or a knob of Cypress Grove Humboldt Fog cheese to bring out its juiciness.

8. M. Chapoutier
   Belleruche Special Selection Côtes-Du-Rhône Blanc

   A highly respected family vintner brings us this authentic, floral special selection White with a loving sense of place. Try its apple, lime and white pepper notes with roasted veggies or pork, or indulge with Amadeus Austrian Select cheese and you'll swear you're eating fondue.

9. Pepperwood Grove
   Pinot Noir

   Warm cherry pie with vanilla ice cream and earthy oak dominate this bargain Chilean 2-pack from a brand you love. Enjoy a glass while you cook and still have enough for the table. Serve with beef or look for Gruyère Reserve from single source farm or Seaside Cheddar or cranberry cheddar to tame the tannins a bit.

10. Sutter Home
    Muscat Of Alexandria

    The retro label is a tip-off — you'll find comfort in this bottle. Honeysuckle and peaches make it playful for occasions like brunch of dessert when you need a wine on the sweet side. Cowgirl Creamery Organic Mount Tam or Rogue Creamery's Anniversary Blue cheese makes the wine's sugary side divine.

11. J. P. Chenet
    Blanc De Blancs Brut

    The value-minded — and utterly delicious — French Sparkler is back! Fine bubbles and a golden hue make this delicate but powerful pour refined. Whether you pair its apricot and buttery brioche notes with Bon Homme Brie from Normandy or Hervé Mons Camembert cheese, pour for a toast or sip after a long day, it always shines.

12. Paso A Paso
    Tempranillo
    Made With Organically Grown Grapes

    From sandy soils in the prized terroir of La Mancha, Spain comes this powerful example of Tempranillo. Six months of aging in French oak barrels results in its deep opaque color and ripe plum and toffee aromas, perfect for drinking with hearty winter stews or bring out the creaminess in P'tit Basque cheese for an intense flavor experience. Made with Organically Grown Grapes.

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