We've always considered the sweet spot of good, inexpensive wines to be in the price range of around $8 to $12. As the economy has deteriorated, however, we have started to look at lower price points. Well, we're pleased to report there are some pleasant surprises out there at very reasonable prices. With this post we'd like to bring two cheap but very drinkable wines to your attention.

We'll start with a simple Italian red, the Cantine Spinelli Montepulciano D'Abrruzo Quartana 2005. At only $4.99, I walked past this wine for weeks without being willing to take a chance on it. Finally I brought one home and was glad that I did. This is a good example of the uncomplicated, fruity wines that Italians commonly use to accompany simple meals on a daily basis. As with most Montepulcianos, there were the notes of cherry, the medium to light body, the ruby color in the glass. Where this wine surpasses others in its (very low) price range is in the nice balance and clean finish. Where many cheap Montepulcianos are overly sweet and by the second day are virtually undrinkable, the Spinelli started out smooth and solid and remained so the next day as well. The wine has enough tannins to provide sufficient structure to stand up to flavorful Italian food while imparting a nice smooth, dry finish. It's true Husband is partial to Italian wines in general but this one even earned a positive vote from Wife who tends to be more critical than me.

The second wine we'd like to discuss is the JP Azeitao 2004 Vinho Regional Terras Do Sado. This is a red wine from Portugal. I often like to try Portuguese wines as they have not yet become overy popular and consequently have not become over-priced. This wine is an interesting combination of 85% Castelao, 7.5% Tempranillo and 7.5% Syrah. We picked this wine up for $5.99 and upon trying it began to discuss running back to get a case. The blend of grapes in this wine adds a nice complexity and notes of spice. The finish is dry and very smoky. Bottom line - it tastes more expensive than it actually is. With more structure than the Spinelli, this wine can go up against more robust menus and hold its own.



OK, these wines may not lend themselves to aging and they certainly couldn't be compared to those high-end wines earning 90+ ratings in Wine Spectator. Nevertheless, they are quite decent and terrific bargains to boot. Yes, these two wines are simple but not so simple that won't enhance a meal. Buy a few bottles, save a few bucks and feel good about being frugal.