"wine steals" news and stories

Photo: Schramsberg.

Gretchen Roberts writes the wine blog Vinobite, has passed the introductory course at the Court of Master Sommeliers and is studying for her sommelier certification this fall.

As a penny-pinching German, I don't drink expensive Champagne or domestic sparkling wine like it's water, but a couple of times a year (New Year's, wedding anniversary), I overcome my thrifty tendencies and blow big bucks on a great bottle. When I'm spending serious money on wine, I want to know my $30 or $60 or $100 is going to be worth it and not a major disappointment.

Normally our Wine Steals column focuses on $15-and-under everyday wines that are amazing for the price, but in honor of special occasions, here are five sparkling wines that I personally love and am willing to shell out for because, as Charles Dickens said, "Champagne is one of the elegant extras in life."

After the jump, five splurgeworthy sparklers plus a poll: How much are you willing to spend on special-occasion wine?

Sean Minor Cabernet Sauvignon. Photo: Sean Minor Wines

Gretchen Roberts writes the wine blog Vinobite, has passed the introductory course at the Court of Master Sommeliers and is studying for her sommelier certification this fall.

Throw out the phrase "Value Cabs" at a gathering of winos and you won't hear "Napa Valley," but you will hear "Chile."

To be honest, besides the excellent Root:1 Cabernet Sauvignon, I find most of the Chilean offerings at the $10 to $20 price point are too vegetal, tasting more of green peppers than ripe fruit. Luckily, plenty of other regions are making delicious, inexpensive Cabs that deliver with deep black fruit, hints of spice, cocoa and a nice finish. Here are seven to seek out.

7. Argentina: The Graffigna 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon ($13) is, like most Argentinean wines, incredibly well-made for the price. Step it up with the (No. 6) 2005 Grand Reserve ($20), which is a little more complex.

Five more Cabs for under $20 -- plus how to tell them apart at tastings without going crosseyed -- after the jump.

Gretchen Roberts writes the wine blog Vinobite, has passed the introductory course at the Court of Master Sommeliers and is studying for her sommelier certification this fall.

At Slashfood we're all about saving you moolah on the best food and drinks around. Here are five more Wine Steals to add to your "must-try" list.

5. Bodegas Arzuaga Navarro "La Planta" 2007 ($13): This Spanish red, made from 100 percent Tempranillo, has dusty plum and strawberry flavors with warm vanilla and allspice. With nice, grippy tannins and a lingering finish, it's a real winner for the price and one of best $13 wines I've had in ages.

4. The Sopranos Red Blend 2007 ($15): Its light, earthy bouquet speaks to Italy's terroir, but like Bobby "Bacala" Baccalieri, it's fairly soft and round for an Italian mobster vino.

Three more Wine Steals and an ice cube (for wine, that is) poll after the jump.