Underdogs that Overdeliver

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With most items we buy, there is a relatively clear correlation between quality and price. When it comes to wine, however, things tend to be opaque. A wine’s price seldom reflects the precise value of what’s inside the bottle; instead, factors such as the cost of the vineyard land and the wine’s reputation and availability are often at play. With this in mind, those who wish to find the best quality-to-price ratio should look to unsung regions, indie producers, and overlooked grape varieties. Here are a few to seek out.

2022 Turley Cinsault Bechthold Vineyard, Lodi, California. Cinsault is an underrated Mediterranean variety with only about 100 acres under vine in California (compared to the 100,000 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon planted in the state). The vines of this Cinsault come from an iconic property, are 150 years old, and yield a concentrated, silky glass of red. Planted in 1885, this Cinsault vineyard is the oldest of its kind in the United States, and perhaps even the oldest Cinsault in the world! *Sold Out - try another Turley wine: 2021 Turley Zinfandel Cedarman

2022 Peter Lauer Neuenberg Riesling, Mosel Valley, Germany. Here is a dry Riesling made by a master and sourced from a cherry parcel. Riesling is objectively one of the most profound white wines thanks to its versatility: it can be enjoyed with gusto in youth and with many decades of age. A wine of equivalent quality from a Grand Cru Burgundy would be at least quadruple the price.

2022 Guy Breton Morgon, Beaujolais, France. Beaujolais rests in the shadows of the more coveted vineyards of Northern Burgundy. After years of playing understudy, the region is finally getting more deserved attention. Utilizing Gamay grapes, Breton makes reference-point, ethereal Beaujolais with soaring red fruit aromas and subtle complexity. *Sold Out, try another Guy Breton Gamay: 2022 Guy Breton Chiroubles