Wine, unlike real estate, doesn’t mind a recession, and hard times do everything but discourage drinking. Still, a cratering 401(k) has a way of shifting a wine lover’s focus away from the big-ticket marquee wines to the joy of the hunt.
By Daniel Duane
With value in mind, here are four off-the-beaten-path reds you should try. They pack more punch for the price, and, best of all, they deliver surprising flavors that make wine exploration worthwhile.
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Malbec
Argentina is famous for two exports: meat and its perfect companion — the red wine known as malbec, which thrives in the country’s dry climate. Inky black grapes turn out intense and full-flavored reds that make a terrific accompaniment to seared flank steak. Try: 2004 Laborum Malbec, $20
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Mourvedre
Mourvèdre’s vibe is rustic, hearty, and likely to conjure flavor descriptors like “gamey,” “animal,” and even “barnyard.” Look for examples from Bandol, France, and California, where the fruit often trails into currants and mocha. Try: 2006 Graff Family Chalone Mourvèdre, $21
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Cabernet Franc
Cabernet franc grapes were traditionally used to punch up the aroma in red blends, but now they’re used to make great stand-alone wines. Medium-bodied, with herb and spice notes, they pair well with rosemary roast chicken or a sirloin. Try: Girard 2005 Cabernet Franc, $40
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Pinotage
This one’s a serious oddball that can be absolutely marvelous — or truly awful. Pinotage is a huge wine prone to an earthy, black-tea quality. You’re likely to get a trace of wood smoke, too, making it just the drink for a mesquite-charred rib eye. Try: 2006 Fort Ross Pinotage, $32
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