Bordeaux, the land of prestigious chateaux and legendary wines, can often conjure images of hefty price tags. But fear not, budget-conscious wine lovers! Bordeaux offers a bounty of delicious and affordable options, waiting to be discovered. Today, we delve into three such gems, each priced under $20, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds without breaking the bank.

1. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ronan-by-Clinet-Bordeaux-Rouge-2016-w4958061o5">Ronan by Clinet, Pomerol</a> - $11.99:

This C&ocirc;tes de Castillon gem is a collaboration between renowned winemaker Jean-Bernard Clinet (of Ch&acirc;teau Clinet fame) and the n&eacute;gociant house of Dourthe. Clinet&#39;s expertise shines through in this blend of Merlot (85%) and Cabernet Franc (15%).

History: While not a historical estate itself, Ronan embodies the spirit of Bordeaux innovation. Clinet, a pioneer in sustainable viticulture, has applied his knowledge to craft an exceptional value wine.

Tasting Notes: Expect a vibrant ruby red color, alive with aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and hints of spice. The palate is smooth and elegant, offering flavors of blackberry, cassis, and earth, balanced by fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish.

Alcohol: 14%

Critics&#39; Reviews:

<ul>
	<li>Jeb Dunnuck: 88 points - &quot;A juicy, charming, and delicious C&ocirc;tes de Castillon to drink over the next few years.&quot;</li>
	<li>James Suckling: 90 points - &quot;A balanced and well-made C&ocirc;tes de Castillon with juicy fruit and a touch of spice.&quot;</li>
</ul>

2. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Clos-du-Roy-Fronsac-2019-w9163742e9">Clos du Roy - Fronsac 2019</a> - $16.99:

Nestled on the Right Bank, Clos du Roy has been producing quality wines since the 1940s. The 2019 vintage is a blend of Merlot (80%) and Cabernet Franc (20%), crafted by the talented winemaker Nicolas Valette.

History: Founded in 1944, Clos du Roy has undergone several ownership changes. Today, it remains dedicated to producing affordable yet high-quality wines.

Tasting Notes: This deep garnet-colored wine opens with aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, and violets, interwoven with hints of vanilla, tobacco, and pepper. The medium-bodied palate is smooth and elegant, offering flavors of ripe fruit, spice, and earth, supported by supple tannins and a lingering finish.

Alcohol: 13.5%

Critics&#39; Reviews:

<ul>
	<li>Wine Advocate: 88 points - &quot;A ripe, juicy, and easy-drinking Fronsac with good value.&quot;</li>
	<li>Decanter: 89 points - &quot;A supple and juicy blend with good depth of fruit and a pleasant finish.&quot;</li>
</ul>

3. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Chateau-Noaillac-Medoc-2019-w1616917r7">Ch&acirc;teau Noaillac - M&eacute;doc 2019</a> - $13.99:

This historic estate, dating back to the 17th century, offers a Cru Bourgeois Sup&eacute;rieur expression of the M&eacute;doc appellation. The 2019 blend comprises Merlot (65%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), and Petit Verdot (5%), crafted by the dedicated team at Ch&acirc;teau Noaillac.

History: Ch&acirc;teau Noaillac boasts a rich history, having passed through several noble families before being acquired by the Miailhe family in 1998. Today, they strive to maintain the estate&#39;s legacy while implementing modern techniques.

Tasting Notes: This deep ruby-colored wine reveals aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, followed by hints of spice and tobacco. The full-bodied palate is structured and elegant, offering flavors of ripe fruit, earth, and spice, supported by firm yet approachable tannins and a long finish.

Alcohol: 13.5%

Critics&#39; Reviews:

<ul>
	<li>Wine Spectator: 88 points - &quot;A balanced and harmonious M&eacute;doc with good structure and length.&quot;</li>
	<li>James Suckling: 90 points - &quot;A well-made and classic M&eacute;doc with good tannins and a pleasing finish.&quot;</li>
</ul>

These three Bordeaux gems demonstrate that exceptional quality doesn&#39;t have to come with a hefty price tag. Each wine offers a unique expression of its terroir and grape varietals, making them perfect for exploring the diverse landscape of Bordeaux. So, grab a bottle (or two!), uncork, and discover the hidden treasures of this world-renowned wine region.

I hope this article helps you discover your next Bordeaux adventure!

Bordeaux, the land of prestigious chateaux and legendary wines, can often conjure images of hefty price tags. But fear not, budget-conscious wine lovers! Bordeaux offers a bounty of delicious and affordable options, waiting to be discovered. Today, we delve into three such gems, each priced under $20, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds without breaking the bank.

Unveiling Bordeaux Gems: Three Under-$20 Treasures

Bordeaux is a name synonymous with some of the world's most prestigious red wines, but its white wines, particularly Bordeaux Blanc, often fly under the radar. While the reds of this region have garnered international fame, Bordeaux Blanc wines, crafted primarily from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle grapes, are some of the wine world's best-kept secrets. These wines offer an elegant balance of freshness, complexity, and aging potential that can rival the finest whites from anywhere in the world.

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, our palates yearn for refreshing beverages that embody the essence of summer. For those new to the world of wine, choosing between cider, orange wine, and rosé can be a delightful journey. Each offers unique flavors and experiences perfect for warm weather sipping. In this article, we’ll explore three standout choices: Wolffer Dry Cider No. 139, Cune Viña Rosado 2023, and Spiritus Terrae Malvasia Orange 2021.

Savoring Summer: The Best Rosé Drink Choices from Cider-Orange-Rosé for Beginners

Navigating the wine list at a restaurant can be a daunting task, as many wine lovers have experienced. In our previous article on the tension of ordering wine at restaurants, we discussed this issue and shared some tips to help ease the process. However, one CorkRules user has recently encountered a situation that highlights just how challenging it can be.

The Switch? – #restaurantfail #winelistfail

Memorial Day weekend signals the official kick-off to summer, and what better way to celebrate than a backyard barbecue with friends and family? But for the wine lovers out there, the usual pairing of burgers and beer can feel a little, well, uninspired.

Fear not, fellow geeks! Let's ditch the predictable and dive into three exciting wine options that will have you sipping and savoring alongside the sizzling BBQ.

Memorial Day BBQ Bash: 3 Wines to Geek Out Over (While Grilling)

What is the right price for a bottle of wine at a restaurant? Wine pricing at restaurants is a hot topic of late but has many complexities. Let's dig into it and better understand the issues and some potential solutions.

The tension around wine pricing at restaurants?

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a name that resonates with prestige and quality in the world of wine. This illustrious appellation is steeped in history dating back centuries and has been producing some of France's most celebrated wines for generations.



Nestled within the southern region of Rhône Valley, France lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape - translated as "the Pope's new castle". The area earned its moniker during the 14th century when it served as a summer residence for Popes who sought refuge from political turmoil in Rome.

The Rich History of Châteauneuf-du-Pape highlighting some great value wines

In the world of wine and food, we often find ourselves ensnared by ratings, stars, points – an endless parade of numbers that dictate our choices. We chase after high-rated wines or Michelin-starred restaurants with fervor only to be met with experiences that seldom live up to their lofty reputations. But amidst this whirlwind pursuit for perfection lies a simple truth - what truly makes wine and food special are not scores or accolades but pure experiences crafted from love.

The Serendipity of Experiences in Wine and Food

The world of sparkling wine is a vast one. While champagne has long been the reigning king, there's another contender that’s not only equally delicious but also offers great value for money - Cremant.

Cremant vs Champagne: The real deal for bubbles.

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

Craft

Grace Hood

RT: Hello and Welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Grace Hood, Wine Educator and Certified Sommelier. Hello Grace,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to have you!

GH: Hi Robert! Glad to be back!

RT Hahaha, yes I love it. Grace, before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list. Alright, Grace today we will be reviewing the New York hotspot, Craft. Grace what were your initial thoughts on this list?

GH: So, we&rsquo;re jumping back into our &ldquo;is it a wine list or a small novel&rdquo; lists hahaha, but for real, Craft has a very unique and diverse list.

Lots of representation here from so many unique wine regions of the world. And speaking of representation, I noticed that at the bottom of the first page they have an asterisk next to certain bottles that indicates that a winery is owned or the wine is made by a female or a black indigenous person of color, and I am HERE for that. Up until recent history, the wine industry was mainly run by the older white men, from the winemakers, the CEOs of wine companies, and of course the Court of the Master Sommeliers. Women and persons of color were not really even thought of to be a part of the wine industry pretty much up until the past 5-10 years. I myself faced ageism and sexism as a young woman in my career, but that all changed 2 years ago, when the women of the wine industry had their own MeToo movement - an expose was published in the New York Times, highlighting the misogyny and sexual misconduct of the wine industry, specifically the Court of the Master Sommeliers. And this came right on the heels of the Black Lives Matter movement, which highlighted just how few persons of color there are in our field.&nbsp; Now, we as a community, are committed towards a more equal, fair and diverse industry, and I&rsquo;m really happy to see Craft making this a priority

RT: Wow that&#39;s incredible. Talk about a revolution. So, with that in mind Grace, which winemakers can we highlight?

GH: Yeah, so on the whites, you have a lovely South African Sauv Blanc from Aslina, which is a winery run by a fabulous woman known as the first lady of South African wine, Ntsiki Biyela. And then on the reds you have a fabulous pinot noir made by Kita Wines, which is the first winery to be owned by a Native American.

RT: Wow that&rsquo;s incredible! Thank you for sharing these amazing sociology lessons with us. It&rsquo;s great to hear that the wine industry, like so many fields, is focused on diversity and inclusion. What would be some other wines on this list you&rsquo;d like to highlight?

GH: When I was cruising through the list, one of the first things I saw in the sparkling category was a really interesting bubbly from Slovenia called Refosco, which is an ancient grape indigenous to Slovenia and Italy. Since this is a sparkling red, which is pretty rare to find, it&rsquo;s going to give you a really interesting experience on the palete - richer and deeper and way more fruity than your average sparkling, and definitely worth it to try because it is a very rare wine to see in the States. So order the Vinakoper Rex Red from the Craft list and get ready for a fascinating bubbly experience!

RT: Woah that&rsquo;s amazing - I have never heard of that one before. Will definitely have to put it on the &ldquo;to try&rdquo; list.

GH: Totally. And when I was looking at the food menu, it has a bit of everything on it - kind of American fusion - so there are lots of different wines on the menu that would pair well. They do have a pretty heavy French section, and you know I love my French wines - so this episode I wanted to highlight a style that doesn&rsquo;t nearly get enough attention because it&#39;s overshadowed by its famous red wines - Bordeaux!

When most people think of Bordeaux they go right to those lucious big bold cab merlot blends. But its white wine counter parts don&rsquo;t nearly get enough love - sauvignon blanc and semillion are the whites of the regions and they are delicious!! Most people think of sauv blanc as light crisp and aromatic, and don&rsquo;t get me wrong it still is. But because its blended with semillion, which is richer deeper and weighted, white Bordeaux&rsquo;s end up drinking like a medium-bodied white - which means they can pair with tons of dishes, and of course they&rsquo;re tasty on their own as well. Craft has 2 white Bordeaux&rsquo;s and for the most authentic white Bordeaux experience I would go with the.

RT: I always forget about white Bordeaux! Going to have to buy some for my cellar.

GH: And invite me over to drink them with you!

RT: Next time you&#39;re in New York we totally will! Now how about the reds Grace?

GH: So, on the lighter side of red - I wanted to highlight another really small production but interesting old-world region - Sicily! Most people when they think Italian wine, they think chianti and Nebbiolo and super Tuscans etc. But the island of Sicily has its own indigenous grapes, including the one here Frappato from Occhipinti. If you&rsquo;re looking for an alternative to pinot or Gamay noir, the light-bodied reds from Sicily are a great alternative.

RT: Awesome - always fun to try new regions from old countries.

GH: Yessir - and speaking of new regions, on the heavier red side, I would go with the 2016 Hedges Family Syrah from Washington is such an underrated area in the United States for wine. It sits on the same latitude as Bordeaux France, and their wines are just as rich and delicious, and at a fraction of the cost as Bordeaux.

RT: Awesome. I know you personally love WA wines so it was only a matter of time before you picked out a favorite! Now to close out, how about a great value wine and then a special occasion bottle?

GH: You got it! For an affordable white, I&rsquo;m going with the unoaked Chardonnay from Wagner Vineyards from the Finger Lakes district of New York. And affordable red I&rsquo;m picking the Rosso Di Toscana Sangiovese. And for special occasion bottles I&rsquo;m going with two Spanish classics - for white it&rsquo;s the Lopez de Heredia, Vina Tondonia Gran Reserva 1981, and the reds it&rsquo;s the 1965 Vega Sicilia Unico. Ole!

RT: Incredible. Grace, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate the Craft wine list.

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.&nbsp; If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@corkrules.Com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists. Follow us on social media @corkrules and @wineswithgrace

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

&nbsp;

End

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Fashionable restaurant showcasing high-end steak & Asian fusion dishes in a luxurious atmosphere.

Steak Frites

Alexis Percival is a New York City based CMS certified sommelier, consultant and event planner who puts the art in party.

Certified sommelier Alexis Percival

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

Meet CorkRules

Discover, manage, buy and order wine with confidence..

Up Your Wine Knowledge

Latest Episode

BRAT

Expert Insights

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World

Meet CorkRules

Discover, manage, buy and order wine with confidence..

Get exclusive content & new product updates

Up Your Wine Knowledge

Latest Episode

BRAT

Expert Insights

Bordeaux Blanc: An Underappreciated Gem of the Wine World