Budget Buys

At Seaboard Wine we work hard to discover interesting, estate bottled, value driven wines for the shelves, and we love to turn our customers on to new labels they may not have tried before. The good news is, these wines do not have to be expensive, and many are from small family owned vineyards from around the world. Our new "Budget Buys" section, located next to the Staff Selections department, will feature a rotating selection of these great buys that are easy on the wallet. Most are from small production vineyards, and some are from larger wineries in California, Chile, Australia and other "new world" regions, but all are tasted and approved by our professional staff, and are tried & true customer favorites. Here are just a few of the dozens of  Budget Buys currently available:
 

Cabriz Red Blend 2009; Dao, Portugal ($9.99) - This is a blend of indigenous grapes Touriga Nacional, Alfocheiro and Tinta Roriz. Dark fruit is complimented by a delicate touch of oak, 6 months in French oak, which also helps soften the tannins. Hints of licorice and smoke linger on the palate, and the wine is balanced by a hint of fresh acidity for even more drinkability. Try it with sautéed wild mushrooms.

Annalisa Primitivo 2009, Puglia, Italy ($10.99 less 25% by the solid case!) - Made by the Fossi family in Apulia. The ripe Primitivo grapes are fermented in stainless and aged in steel & older French barrels. The wine is dark and jammy with fresh acidity and pleasant peppery spiciness on the finish. Fun to drink, and pairs well with spicy pizzas and Sicilian dishes.

La Puerta Torrontès 2011; Famatina Valley, Argentina ($11.99)- "La Puerta’s 2011 Alta Torrontes was made from La Rioja fruit, fermented and raised in stainless steel. Fragrant floral and tropical notes inform the nose of a spicy, tangy, nicely proportioned wine with a vibrant acidity and good length. It is a very good value meant for drinking over the next 12-18 months." -Robert Parker's Wine Advocate #198

Distant Land Sauvignon Blanc 2011; Marlborough, New Zealand ($11.99 less 25% by the solid case!) - The cool 2010 growing season ended on a surprisingly warm note, allowing the creation of a wine with lively acidity but plenty of flavor concentration. Restrained aromas of passion fruit and grapefruit zest greet the nose, leading to a slightly herbal palate. The finish is minerally with a hint of lime.  Pair with sautéed white fish or çeviche.

Palacio Vivero Viura/ Verdejo 2010; Rueda, Spain ($10.99) - This blend of Rueda’s two most popular grapes, Viura and Verdejo, shows refreshingly aromatic citrus notes balanced by hints of ripe pineapple and kiwi fruit. Brisk acidity and subtle minerality rounds out the lengthy finish, making this a great pair for seviche, steamed clams, or white fish steamed in parchment.

Picos del Montgó Tempranillo 2009 ($11.99 less 25% by the solid case!) Tempranillo, Spain’s workhorse grape, produces a myriad of different wine styles. This particular example sees the addition of 10% Syrah for added fruit complexity and structure. Hints of blackberry and plum add nuance to the core of jammy, dark cherry flavors, while the soft tannins and fresh acidity keep this rich wine approachably smooth.

Chablisienne Sauvignon Blanc 2010; Saint Bris, Burgundy, France ($11.99) This rare gem from the little known appellation of Saint-Bris-Le-Vieneux in Burgundy, one of the few places where Sauvignon Blanc is allowed, is bright dry and clean with floral melon notes and hints of lemon zest. Rounding out the palette is wet stone and medium acidity. Try with grilled seafood or roasted chicken and herbs.

Shannon Ridge Petite Sirah 2009; Mendocino, California ($11.99) Sourced from Estate vineyards in the recently established High Valley AVA, the grapes for this wine have been picked at the peak of ripeness, creating an intense and opulent experience. Aromas of tobacco and blackberry swirl in the mouth with flavors of rich, ripe blueberry, boysenberry and cedary spice. This rich and full-bodied red is well balanced, with soft, velvety tannins and a touch of spicy oak on a warm, lingering finish.

Rio Madre Graciano 2010; Rioja, Spain ($11.99) Graciano has long been considered a blending grape in Rioja, where it adds a delicate floral bouquet and complexity to the wines, but rarely is it seen as a 100% bottling. Dark fruit notes are accented by cherry spice and licorice, while the wine’s chewy tannins help balance the bitter cherry and cassis flavors. This is a steal for such a unique wine!

Indaba Chenin Blanc 2011; South Africa ($9.99 less 25% by the solid case!) Chenin Blanc, also referred to as Steen in the local South African dialect, combines rich, pure fruit with elegant structure and succinct mineral tones. This particular Chenin is a juicy offering with supple orchard fruit, refreshing citrus, and delicate spice. Pair with salads or sautéed fish.

Filon Garnacha 2009; Calatayud, Spain ($9.99) It’s hard to beat Spain when it comes to wine prices, and the area of Calatayud produces some of the best Garnacha in the country. This is young and bursting with layers of red and black raspberry and cherry notes. Hints of licorice and bacon fat float on the surface, and the wine shows fully ripe tannins making it dangerously drinkable.

Cascina Noto Barbera 2009; Piedmont, Italy ($11.99 less 25% by the solid case!) The 2009 harvest was the latest in a string of excellent vintages in the Piedmont, and the intensity of fruit in this Barbera gives credit to the vintage. Ripe raspberry and black cherry flavors are balanced by nuances of cocoa and licorice, while the harmonious acidity keeps the wine fresh, clean and persistent.

Cata Regia Gran Reserva 2004; Terra Alta, Spain ($11.99) We were incredibly impressed with the value this wine from the lesser known Terra Alta region of Spain. Hints of spice and smoke intertwine with round cherry and black currant fruit notes. Subtle oak and cedar notes play well with this red, which is delightfully smooth and exceptionally elegant, thanks to several years of bottle age.

Honoro Vera Monastrell 2010, Jumilla, Spain ($9.99 less 25% by the solid case!) The vineyards for Honoro Vera are located high in elevation in the Jumilla region of Spain, where the Monastrell grape thrives. This example is fermented and aged completely in stainless steel, which preserves the fresh, dark fruit notes indicative of the varietal. The jammy black fruit notes are incredibly lively and complex, especially given the inexpensive price range for this stellar value!

Altos Las Hormigas ‘Colonia Las Liebres’, Bonarda 2009 ($10.99) Bonarda, originally from Piedmont, Italy, thrives in Argentina's stable, warm climate. Prone to high yields and washed out flavors, the grape is handled very well in the vineyards by the folks at Altos Las Hormigas. This delicious cuvée is named Colonia Las Liebres ("Colony Of Rabbits") after the rabbits that inhabit those vineyards. Fittingly, rabbit wrapped in bacon should help bring out all the juicy red fruits in this easy-to-drink offering.

Ken Forrester ‘Petit’, Red Blend 2009, Stellenbosch, South Africa ($9.99) A youthful fresh Bordeaux-styled blend showing ripe mulberries and plums with spicy, cigar box undertones. Very accessible with smooth and balanced tannins. All hand-harvested to ensure a thorough quality cellar selection. Carefully blended to achieve a soft, rich fruit driven wine. This wine is great to enjoy with grilled meats.

Badia Corti ‘Classico Abbiatto’ 2009, Orvieto, Umbria, Italy ($9.99) This fresh Italian blend comes from the vineyards surrounding the hilltop town of Orvieto in the region of Umbria in the heart of Italy. Delicate, round flavors of pear and sweet melon are accented by zesty citrus tones and a clean finish. Makes a classic aperitif and if you pair it with food, keep things light such as delicately flavored pasta, fish or chicken dishes.

Perdrier Brut Rosé, France ($9.99) This medium-bodied bargain sparkler features refreshingly delicate scents and flavors of red fruits that leads to a nice, dry finish with a fine effervescence.  Made from Pinot Noir blended with a cluster of other varietals it's an altogether amazing value to pair with hors d'oeuvres, smoked salmon, on its own or your next get together.

Paul D, Zweigelt 2009, Weinland, Austria ($10.99) Another impressive value from our new young winemaker, Paul Direder. Very aromatic with lively violet and raspberry aromas, soft jammy red berry fruit up front and a lush mid-palate of fresh berry fruit. Very clean, spicy and pure with fresh acidity through the finish. Reminiscent of a young Cru Beaujolais, only with more fruit and tannins. This would make a great house red with your favorite comfort foods like meatloaf, Spaghetti and casseroles, or bring a bottle to your next party and turn your friends onto the new wave of Austrian red wines!

Casabianca ‘Coppaia’, Red Blend 2009, Tuscany, Italy ($10.99) From our great friend Jim Stock of the Haw River Wine Man comes this delicious blend of 70% Sangiovese and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. True Tuscan terroir, rustic and earthy flavors, great balance, wonderful focus and an affordable price make this a perfect wine for your next Italian-themed dinner party.

Parados ‘Winemaker’s Select Red Blend’ 2010, Mendoza, Argentina ($8.99 less 25% by the case!) One might refer to this wine as an ‘international blend’ of grapes, featuring Italy’s Sangiovese, Spain’s Tempranillo, and the ubiquitous Malbec of Argentina. This atypical medley suits the grapes perfectly, allowing the lovely red cherry fruits of Sangiovese to come through, balanced by the rich, earthy tones of Tempranillo and the luscious fruit depth of Malbec.

Line 39 Petite Sirah 2009, North Coast, California ($10.99) Referencing the 39th parallel where many of the world’s great wine regions are located, Line 39 seeks to find a balance between richness and value. This juicy red is full of blackberry and blueberry fruit notes balanced by subtle hints of vanilla and spicy oak on a velvety finish. A full-bodied red like Petite Sirah screams for a pan-seared ribeye with extra black pepper!

Domaine La Salette 2010; Cotes de Gascogne, France ($9.99) Made from 80% Colombard, 10% Ugni Blanc and 10% Gros Manseng. Fresh, clean and lively with intense exotic fruit aromas. Crisp, clean and zesty in the mouth, it offers delicate flavors of citrus fruit and grapefruit, and a long lingering finish. Enjoy as an aperitif or with grilled fish, shellfish and appetizers.

Bidoli Friulano 2009; Friuli, Italy ($10.99) 100% Tocai Friulano, Medium bodied with hints of apple, pear and acidity that is crisp and refreshing. A little more full and complex than Pinot Grigio, and an excellent choice with light cream sauces, sautéed fish or steamed shellfish.

Makulu Moscato 2010, Western Cape, South Africa ($6.99) Moscato Bianco is one of the oldest white varietals in the world, but it is often assumed to be sugary sweet thanks to the popularity of sparkling Asti. This off-dry South African example shows the balance of fruit that can be found in this grape. Bright, fragrant and un-faded with a lingering finish, this lively and effervescent white has stood the test of time.

Lurton Pinot Gris 2010; Mendoza, Argentina ($10.99) The Lurton brothers have been operating in Argentina since 1992, working in partnership with Catena at first, then going on to establish their own bodega in 1996. The popularity of their Pinot Gris in Menodza, which features a soft texture, full mouthfeel and ripe melon fruit, is a testament to its appealing nature. Pair it with a cedar plank-grilled salmon filet served over a bed of fresh greens.

Casal Garcia Rosé 2010, Vinho Verde, Minho, Portugal ($8.99) Casal Garcia is a second label from the renowned Vinho Verde producer Quinta di Aveleda. Despite the fruity nature, this is still a dry wine, showing fresh notes of strawberry, raspberry and cherry. The nice acidity characterizes the wine’s solid structure, and the harmonious finish makes this a great partner for appetizers and light salads.

Terra Andina Chardonnay 2010, Argentina  ($7.99) Terra Andina has done it again with this great-tasting value. Tropical fruits are prominent on the nose of this silky Chardonnay. Citrus and pineapple combine to create a well-balanced mouthfeel. Pair with chicken and pasta in a light cream sauce.

Tilia Malbec Syrah 2009, Argentina ($9.99) "Bright red-ruby. Aromas of blackcurrant, toasted marshmallow and pepper. Sweet and silky but with restraint. Attractive blackberry, pepper and espresso flavors are clean, intense and shapely. A bit more penetrating on the finish than the Malbec bottling." Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, issue Jan/Feb 11.

Daõ Cabriz Blanco 2009, Portugal ($9.99) Steep, granitic mountains surround the Dão growing area, protecting the vineyards from the harsh continental climate and providing the opportunity to grow grapes at high elevation in well-drained soils. The result is a beautifully fresh and characterful wine crafted from Malvasia-Fina, Encruzado, Cerceal and Bical grapes. This is an ideal thirst quencher, especially with pan-seared scallops or cod with a simple lemon-butter sauce.

Mars and Venus Merlot 2009, Chile ($5.99) As if the wines from Terra Andina weren't a big enough bargain, the same great winemaking team brings the ‘Mars and Venus’ wines that are even easier on your budget. Silky black cherry and raspberry fruit flavors are highlighted with inflections of mocha with their Merlot. Great with simple, everyday foods such as burgers or pepperoni pizza.

Borsao Macabeo 2010; Campo de Borja, Spain ($7.99) The white counterpart to our best-selling Borsao Garnacha is a delightfully smooth and balanced rendition of Macabeo. Fermented in stainless steel and then aged in oak for three months, the brightness of tropical fruits and orange peel is answered by creaminess on the palate. The richness is easily kept in check by pleasant acidity. Although food is not required to enjoy this wine, try pairing it with fish in a light herb sauce or a lemony chicken salad.

Quinta do Cachão Tinto 2005; Douro, Portugal ($9.99) Quinto do Cachão recently built a modern, state of the art winery on their estate that has vineyards dating back over 150 years. This amalgamation of ‘old’ and ‘new’ has lead to wines with clean and pure flavors that maintain great regional character. Their tinto, a blend of four indigenous varietals, is smooth and well balanced with notes of elegant notes of cherries, dried fruits and savory herbs. Try it with grilled meats, poultry and semi-firm cheeses.

Lamplighter California Chardonnay ($8.99, less 25% by the case!) This Lamplighter offering is a bright, refreshing California Chardonnay. Grapefruit, lemon, green apple, and buttered toast go hand in hand with the elegant mouthfeel. The fruits are well-balanced by the acidity, and everything is completed by a surprisingly long, slightly oaky finish.

Ca'Brigiano Montepulciano 2009; Abruzzo, Italy ($7.99) An excellent Italian red for the price! Deep cassis color with round crushed berry fruit, soft tannins and a smooth easy finish. Balanced with a touch of spice on the finish. Enjoy with thick red sauces, simple grilled meats and kabobs.

Mars and Venus Chardonnay 2010, Chile ($5.99) Maybe “Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus”™ but one thing that we can all agree upon is the wonderful bargain that are the ‘Mars and Venus’ wines. In their Chardonnay, soft tangerine and orchard fruit interplay on the palate finishing with a fine thread of crisp acidity highlighted with just a kiss of oak. A nice everyday which for ‘beer can’ chicken or grilled shrimp.

Berco do Infante Reserva 2008, Portugal ($9.99) Portuguese wines can be a bit confusing with grape varietals and regions that are unfamiliar to all but the biggest wine geeks, but the value they offer will appeal to everyone. This deeply colored wine shows the warmth of its sun-baked terroir in the southwestern of Portugal with its lush and fleshy personality. Round and supple blueberry and black currant fruit flavors are accented with spicy oak on its juicy finish. Blend of Castelão & Aragonez.

Santa Julia Tempranillo "Organica" 2010, Argentina ($9.99) The 'Spanish connection' between the wines of South America and Europe has brought Tempranillo to Argentina. Cool aromas of blackberries, raisins, plums, and figs, with hints of leather and earth. This Tempranillo is nice and easy drinking, but still has a nice base of tannins to provide structure. An excellent accompaniment to grilled or roasted meats and pasta dishes.

Las Barricas Torrontes 2009, Mendoza, Argentina ($9.99) Ripe and round, the aromas from the Torrontés virtually burst from the glass with tropical and honeysuckle aromas.  Unlike some Torrontés where the flavors and the mouthfeel fall short of the promise of the nose, the Barricas following through with effusive flavors to match. A nice pairing for seafood, chicken or pork served with a spicy tropical fruit salsa.

Domaine de Pellehaut White Blend 2009, Gascogne, France ($8.99) While comprised mainly from the chief grapes of the area, Ugni Blanc and Colombard, Pellehaut blends in four other grapes in small percentages to add depth, complexity and character to this light white. Tropical fruits ride on top of a herbaceous undertone, all of which is balanced by lively, fresh acidity that runs through to the bright finish.

Ca’ Brigiano Pinot Grigio 2010, Italy ($7.99) This Pinot Grigio is soft pressed and fermented off the skins.  It is stainless steel fermented until bottled.  It has a pale straw yellow color and a light to medium body. Floral aromas with rich fruity flavors, good length and a rounded off-dry finish.

Le Monferrine Cortese 2010, Piedmont, Italy ($9.99, less 25% by the case) 100% Cortese from prime, southwest facing vineyards in the Monferrato hills of Northern Italy, a stones throw away from the quintessentially Cortese appellation of Gavi, but at a fraction of the cost. Juicy and crisp with apple and lemon flavors with mineral touches and  finishes with a gently, zesty acidity. A great cocktail wine that is also the perfect partner to simple fish dishes or a  goat cheese salad.

Hugues Beaulieu Picpoul de Pinet 2010, Languedoc, France ($9.99) From the Languedoc area of southern France, Picpoul drinks like a combination of Muscadet and Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. It features a floral, mineral nose and bright, refreshing, citrusy flavors. This is a great year-round fit for your favorite Mediterranean cuisine. Try it with roasted fish and fresh vegetables in an herbed butter sauce.

Lamplighter Merlot, California ($8.99, less 25% by the case) Lamplighter Merlot shines with bright, round flavors of ripe cherries, berry fruit, plum and subtle spice on a layer of beautiful oak and smooth tannins. Each cuvée is handcrafted to exemplify the best of California and the elegant beauty of Merlot. The value-driven red is perfect for large gatherings, or great with BBQ ribs, cheeseburgers and fries.

Le Monferrine Dolcetto 2009, Asti, Piedmont, Italy ($9.99, less 25% by the case) Sites dedicated to Dolcetto have been decreasing over the past few decades in the Piedmont with many ripping up Dolcetto and planted Nebbiolo, chasing the Barolo’s success. We are happy to find that Dolcetto is maintaining its strong roots in the hills of the Alta Monferrato in the Piedmont for we just love these vibrant reds for everyday consumption. A fresh, juicy wine with plenty of perfume-laced fruit and an accessible, elegant personality.

2 Copas Malbec / Tempranillo 2009, Mendoza, Argentina ($9.99 less 25% by the solid case!) This blend of 80% Tempranillo and 20% Malbec blends the signature red grapes of Rioja and Mendoza to create an easy-drinking red.  A somewhat floral nose belies a firm backbone of red fruits balanced by earthier notes, ending in a pleasingly tart finish. A great pair for a mid-week take out pizza.

Finca Luzon ‘Luzon’ Monastrell / Syrah 2008 ($9.99) "The 2008 Luzon is a blend of 65% Monastrell and 35% Syrah. Dark ruby in color, it has an enticing perfume of violets, spice notes, black cherry, and blueberry. On the palate it shows off a racy, elegant personality with spicy blueberry flavors, lively acidity, and a fruit-filled finish. Enjoy it over the next four years." Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, Issue 183

Messias Touriga Nacional 2007 Dao, Portugal ($8.99) Here is a great buy for a light but flavorful picnic, cookout, or party red. Medium ruby-purple color with a ripe nose of black and red fruits. Although it's light-bodied on the palate, it's got impressive purity of fruit, nice roundness, and good balance. Nice finish, with a little youthful tannin and hints of black pepper.

Adega de Pegoes White Blend 2009, Portugal ($9.99) Sandy soils and a Mediterranean climate form the perfect combination for growing Fernao Pires, Moscatel and Arinto. Made from grapes grown in the Pegoes region, around the sun-baked plains of Lisbon. Aromatic, with juicy summer-ripe fruit, yet refreshingly zesty, crisp and dry. Great with spicy cuisine.

Gouguenheim Chardonnay 2010, Mendoza, Argentina ($10.99) This Argentinian Chardonnay, from the foothills of the Andes, is an exceptional value. Their highly regarded winemaker has crafted a wine with ripe orchard fruit and delicate citrus that dances on the palate with generous richness throughout. One of our best "daily quaffers", pair this with grilled chicken or a creamy pasta dish.

Badia Corti White Blend Orvieto Abboccato 2009, Umbria, Italy ($9.99) This fresh Italian blend comes from the vineyards surrounding the hilltop town of Orvieto in the region of Umbria in the heart of Italy. Delicate, round flavors of pear and sweet melon are accented by zesty citrus tones and a clean finish. Makes a classic aperitif and if you pair it with food, keep things light such as delicately flavored pasta, fish or chicken dishes.

Mars and Venus Sauvignon Blanc 2010, Central Valley, Chile ($5.99) This juicy well-crafted wine has copious amounts of citrus and melon fruit to it. Its flavors explode on the palate with a savory balance of fruit and acidity. A solid benchmark in South American Sauvignon Blanc. Pair with grilled shellfish, light salads with goat cheese, or sesame ginger stir-fry.

Mi Villa White Blend 2009, Rioja, Spain ($9.99) One of our best values in Spanish whites, the Mi Villa blanco is a crisp, fresh blend of Viura, Garnacha Blanca and Macabeo from Rioja. Its refreshing  palate offers hints of lime and melon fruit. A wonderful wine to enjoy with light seafood dishes, soft cheeses or simply as an aperitif.

Vallevo Montepulciano 2008, Abruzzo, Italy ($9.99) A quintessential Montepulciano with dark berry fruit, a hint of spice, soft texture and fresh acidity. Great with a platter of antipasti, a bowl of penne and marinara, or simply on its own. As always, this Montepulciano is proof positive that you don't have to break the bank for a perfectly solid bottle of wine

Fossi ‘Rosso’ Red Blend, Italy ($7.99, less 25% by the solid case!) The world needs good jug wines, and here's a fine example from Italy. Fossi is a fine Chianti producer, and as you would expect, this nonvintage wine tastes much like a junior Chianti. The black cherry and spice flavor of the sangiovese grape comes through in a light, easily quaffable form. It's a good choice for a casual party where simple pasta dishes are served.

Ken Forrester ‘Petit’ Pinotage 2009, South Africa ($9.99) Pinotage, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, has become the signature wine of South Africa.  On the nose, ‘Petit’ has the classic varietal notes of smokehouse wood and blackberry compote. The midpalate shows deep, ripe cherries as well as smoke and a nice touch of minerality, finishing with supple tannins.  Pair with grilled short ribs.

Domaine Skouras ‘Red’ Cabernet Sauvignon / Agiorgitiko 2009, Greece ($9.99) Fans of Beaujolais will enjoy this fresh and vibrant red from Peloponnese. Raspberry and cherry aromas lead to tangy, clean and brisk red fruit flavors and a supple, easy going finish. Great on its own or with simple and flavorful dishes. Put just a touch of a chill on it and taste why many in the world of wine see Greek wines as the next 'big thing'.

Adega de Borba ‘Convento da Villa’ Red Blend 2009, Alentejano, Portugal ($8.99) The Convento da Vila is a juicy, quaffable effort from one of our favorite Portugese estates: Adega Borba. Made from the indigenous varietals Trincadeira, Aragonez and Castelão, the wine is fermented completely in stainless steel, making it a pure expression of vibrant fruit. It's a pleasant accompaniment to grilled or roasted meats.

Monte Oton Garnacha 2009, Campo de Borja, Spain ($7.99) Monte Oton's Garnacha is the latest in tasty offerings from the Campo de Borja region, imported by Jorge Ordonez. It features juicy red fruit flavors, soft tannins and mild acidity. This is a great little everyday value, and is a nice match with barbecue and other favorites off the grill.