Palate Pleasing Gems <$20

Gems in MY Glass . . ., Great Values, Tasting Notes

Looking for an affordable, easy to quaff wine? Give these a try! You can find them, and other wines to tickle your taste buds, online at www.wineinsiders.com.

Three Wine Men 2017 Zinfandel, Sonoma County ($14.99):  Ripe dark berry aromatics clearly speak Zinfandel.  Flavors of sweet plums, raspberry-filled hard candy, boysenberry preserves, subtle spice, and fresh squeezed Sunkist oranges meld, smoothly coating the mouth.  Jammy while being well balanced, it finishes fresh and clean.

Monarch Glen 2019 Sauvignon Blanc, California ($13.99):  This snappy Sauvignon Blanc, broadcasting Granny Smith apples on the nose, brims with vibrancy. On the palate, flavors of white grapefruit, kiwi, lime soda, and a suggestion of herbs join complementary acidity.  The finish is bright and uplifting.

Hayton Family 2018 Reserve Syrah, California ($15.99):  The concentrated fruity aroma of this medium bodied Syrah is inviting.  Ripe blackberries, spice-infused plum jam, and cherry-vanilla pudding cake meld on the palate. Backed by gentle tannins and a smooth texture, flavors linger through the succulent close. 

Lone Vine 2019 Winemaker’s Selection Pinot Grigio, California ($14.99):   Fresh lemon-lime scents waft from the glass.  Lemon splashed Golden Delicious apples, pear sorbet, honeycomb, and a touch of salinity unfold onto the palate. Crisp and refreshing through the lime-accented finish.

George Phillips 2017 Reserve Selection Merlot, California ($17.99): A perfumed nose of forest berries and savory spice opens the door to this fruit forward Merlot.  Round, mouth filling and nicely balanced, it shows off notes of juicy blueberries, Bing cherries, vanilla, a dash of spice, and hints of cherry red vines on the satisfying finish.