Wine On A Dime: 5 Whites and 5 Reds Under 10 Bucks

One way to get ready for fall entertaining is to have items on hand that make get-togethers easy.

Since my husband and I usually rely on family for babysitting, we often feel guilty spending too much time out. After dinner, our friends often join us at home for a drink and dessert.

I like to keep some “company” food like Pepperidge Farm cookies or a frozen cheesecake (my favorite brand is the Cheesecake Factory, which I pick up at BJ’s Warehouse.) on hand. Both look elegant on a nice platter. Both must be artfully hidden from my children or husband, who would easily polish them off.

In addition to food, I also like to keep some adult beverages on hand. In our house, you can tell when the seasons change, since my husband runs to the store for his favorite brew, Sam Adams’ Octoberfest, every fall like clockwork.

I like to have some wine on hand to offer guests. But, with the assortment of wines being offered and new varieties constantly emerging liquor shops can be intimidating and overwhelming.

I spoke with Jeff Wertalik, Manager of Bottle King in Hillsborough, to get his take on products priced under $10 that provide a taste richer than their price. Wertalik has broad knowledge of liquor products, however, he specializes in Wines from Australia/New Zealand and South America.

Here are his suggestions for this fall:

Patch: What five white wines under $10 would be great to serve to guests?

Wertalik: Here’s a list, including wines from around the world that are worth trying:

1. Smythe & Renfield Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand
2. La Rocca Pinot Grigio, Italy
3. Tosca Prosecco, a sparkling white wine from Italy
4. Cupcake Chardonnay, California, which is becoming increasingly popular
5. Tic Tok , which is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, from Australia

Patch: Can you also give five options for red wine drinkers?

Wertalik: Sure. There are a number of options from California, in particular that I would recommend:

1. Mark West Pinot Noir, California
2. Sonoma Range Merlot, California
3. Tosca Chianti, Italy
4. Rio Diamante, Cabernet, Argentina
5. Gnarly Head Cabernet, California

Patch: I'm inexperienced with wine, but I know that certain foods go better with different wine flavors. If I’m planning a party, would someone be able to steer me in the right direction?

Wertalik: Yes, definitely. Our managers can review your menu, walk you around the store and suggest appropriate wine pairings. We are also very good at estimating quantity, so people don’t over- or under-buy.

Since I'm a couponer, I also feel compelled to tell you that Bottle King regularly releases coupons via its newsletter. The current edition can be read here-coupons are towards the back.

What value-priced wines would you add to the list?