How to Choose the Best Value Wine at a Wine Store
Tips for Sipping Smart Without Overspending
When you walk into a wine store—rows upon rows of bottles, mysterious labels, price tags ranging from modest to mortgage-worthy—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to break the bank to drink well. Finding great value wine is more about knowing where to look and what to look for than chasing big names or high scores.
Here’s how to choose the best value wine like a savvy sipper:
1. Ignore the Big Names
Famous wine regions and producers often command premium prices because of reputation—not necessarily because they’re better. Instead of defaulting to Napa Cab or Bordeaux, look to lesser-known regions with similar styles and better price tags.
Try this:
- Instead of Champagne, try Crémant from France (like Crémant de Loire or Crémant de Jura).
- Swap Napa for Chilean or Portuguese reds.
- Love Sancerre? Try Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire’s neighbor, Touraine.
2. Shop the Back Label
The importer or distributor can be a secret weapon. Certain names on the back label (like Kermit Lynch, Skurnik, Louis/Dressner, or Becky Wasserman) are known for curating excellent producers who offer quality and value. These importers are like your wine BFFs—trustworthy, experienced, and taste-driven.
3. Ask for Help (Smartly)
Most good wine stores are staffed with passionate folks who want to help. Be specific about your budget and what you like. Instead of asking for “a good red,” try: “I usually like spicy Syrah, and I’m looking for something under $20.”
You’ll often end up with something more interesting—and more affordable—than grabbing the label you recognize.
4. Go Off the Beaten Path
The best value often hides in unfamiliar grape names and obscure appellations. These wines may not be trendy, but they’re often farmed and made with just as much care.
Grapes to watch for:
- Red: Bobal (Spain), Zweigelt (Austria), Cinsault (France/South Africa), Frappato (Sicily)
- White: Grüner Veltliner (Austria), Godello (Spain), Picpoul (France), Assyrtiko (Greece)
5. Vintage Isn’t Everything, But It Helps
In cooler wine regions (like Burgundy or Germany), the vintage can matter more. But in general, don’t get hung up on the year—especially with young wines meant for early drinking. If you’re buying a bottle to enjoy tonight, focus on freshness and style over cellaring potential.
6. Price Doesn’t Always Equal Quality
While you usually won’t find greatness at $5, that $25 bottle from a lesser-known region could easily outperform a $50 name-brand. The sweet spot for value is often between $15 and $30—where craft meets accessibility.
7. Trust Your Taste, Not the Critics
Scores can be helpful, but they’re just someone else’s palate. Trust your own experiences. If you had a $12 Mencía from Bierzo that blew your mind, write it down and use that as a clue for future purchases.
Final Sip: Keep a Wine Journal or Photo Log
Remembering what you liked (and what you didn’t) helps refine your value radar. Snap a photo, jot down a few notes, and over time you’ll build a personalized guide to drinking well for less. Reputable shops like Champion Wine Cellars are able to store your purchase history and fine-tailor your purchases.
Wine shopping doesn’t need to be intimidating. With a bit of curiosity and an open mind, the best bottle on the shelf might be the one you’ve never heard of. And that’s where the adventure—and the value—really begins.