The name Frescobaldi may immediately evoke both history (the Tuscan family has made wine since the 1300s and once traded wine for Michelangelo's paintings) and quality (they are responsible for some of the top Brunellos in the region).

In these lean economic times, Frescobaldi is trying on an new image -- value. According to industry research, people are still drinking vino, but they're trading down. A $30-per-bottle kind of guy may now be springing for $20 bottles. Folks who snagged $15 bottles in the fat days of 2008 may be hunting for $10 wines in the lean days of 2009.

But no one wants wines as thin as their portfolios. Can we get the same quality at a lower price?

Luckily, there are plenty of wines out there that fit the bill. Before value was cool, several producers were making good wines that taste like they should cost more. Some hail from so-called "value regions" like Chile, Argentina and South Africa and others, somewhat surprisingly, come from top producers in some of the best growing regions in the world.

Frescobaldi falls in to the latter category, with two not-so-pricey wines (especially the Nipozzano) that certainly are tasty. Whether we're in fat or lean economic times, that's what it's all about, isn't it?

My notes:

Frescobaldi Remole 2006 ($10): Made from 85 percent Sangiovese and 15 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, the Tuscan Remole has the scent and taste of cherries and a bit of funk. Its high acidity was a solid counterpoint for a simple spaghetti in red sauce.

Frescobaldi Nipozzano Riserva 2005 ($20): Made from 90 percent Sangiovese and 10 percent assorted red grapes, the Nipozzano was exceptionally round and ripe for a Chianti. I tasted cherries, cloves and that beautiful acidity that makes certain Italian wines not-so-good for sipping but mouthwateringly delicious with food, such as the wonderful Eggplant Raviolini Soup I made from the April issue of Every Day With Rachael Ray. This is a fantastic deal at $20; Wine Spectator agrees, awarding it 90 points and a "Smart Buy" designation.

Are you into value wines these days? Got any favorites?