5 Red Wines for Under $15

As an amateur wine enthusiast I have discovered that very good wines can be had for cheap. The wines aren't cheap themselves though. They are bold and rich, a characteristic of red wines in general. As any wine lover will tell you reds have a power about them. Regardless of the type of wine-Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir, or any of the myriad other types-red wines contain a diverseness of aromas and tastes. And the beauty of reds is that there are many quality inexpensive ones, many of which are not hard to find in most towns by taking a trip to the nearest liquor store. When you do go, look for these five red wines that are, typically, under $15:

My first recommendation for inexpensive red wines is Hungarian Egri Bikavérwineries in the Eger region of Hungary it is an over-looked red that is polarizing because of its bold flavors. Regardless, it is my all-time favorite wine. A sniff of the deep red liquid tells you that it is meaty, earthy and peppery. It starts with a prune-like taste and the finish can be a surprise for the uninitiated. It hits the back of the tongue with a strong pepper taste (depending upon your palate it might also taste like soy sauce or prunes) that can catch you by surprise. If you can, find at bottle of the 1999 vintage. That year, Hungarians have told me, is the best vintage perhaps ever as of 2005. About $8. (Bull's Blood). You can get this exotic red wine at many local liquor stores and places like Trader Joe's that carry a wide range of wines. Be forewarned, Bikavér is not for the faint of heart. Grown in the rich soil of

While Bull's Blood is my favorite red of all time, there is some fierce competition with Duck Pond's Pinot Noir (Oregon). It is a smoother than expected Pinot considering the reputation such reds tend to have. The aroma is gentle, but clearly rich in tannins. The flavor as it travels down your throat is a perfect blend of tannins, anise/black licorice, oak, and earth. The 2001 vintage I had was truly wonderful; it had won several local and regional wine awards. Unfortunately, the 2001 vintage ran out last year some time. I was able to buy two bottles from one of the last cases available. But don't fret; I assure you that later vintages are as high quality as that one. When I first had it five years ago this wine was priced at about $10. However, as each consecutive year seems to be as good if not better than the previous year and it continues to wine awards, the price is now at $20 through the winery; however, it can still be had for around $15 online.

The least expensive of the wines I recommend is Rex Goliath Merlot Rex Goliath Merlot. Contrary to what Miles from Sideways asserts in his diatribe about Merlots, this inexpensive merlot is a true gem. What does it for me with this wine is the blend of light tannins (which is ironic considering I love generally love heavy tannins and oak flavor) and a subtle sweetness that must come from the Malbec grapes added to the mix and a hint of spice. While the giant rooster on the label may make you question its palatability this wine isn't some campy run-of-the-mill red; Rex's 2003 vintage was a consistent Gold medal winner at wine competitions all over the U.S. At about $10 a bottle you really can't go wrong.

While merlot is generally a great wine to drink while relaxing, I think Cabernets are often overlooked for their ease of sipping. My favorite leisurely red wine is Duck Pond's Cabernet Sauvignon. It could be said that I like this wine only because I fancy Duck Pond's tasting room, but it is one of the best inexpensive Cabs I've had the pleasure of swishing around in my mouth. The aroma is divine; berries and spices are the predominant ones that waft up to you. The start and finish are smooth and simple. Price: About $10.

My final recommendation for red wines is Lindeman Bin 50 Shiraz (South Eastern Australia). No Top 5 Red Wine list would be complete without mentioning the strength and potency of the syrah/shiraz variety. While Yellow Tail, Rosemount Estate's and Black Swan are the standard good inexpensive Australian shirazes in every grocery store, my top shiraz is Lindemans Bin 50. What is magnificent about this wine is the unity it has each time I try it. The flavors and aromas are consistent with one another. Both express bold fruity flavors. Blueberries, blackberries and light plum dominate both the nose and taste of this wine. Added in for good measure is a noticeable plum and oaky-ness that, unlike many other inexpensive syrahs and shirazes, doesn't mask but rather accentuates the berries. Price: About $9.

Remember that when you shop for wines, it's best to match the wine as closely with the food you'll be serving. Reds, especially the bolder ones like the Bikavér and the Pinot Noir I have listed above, go best with red meats. For a causal, snuggle up in front of a fire with your loved one or a book, go with the Merlot or the Cabernet; both are excellent as just relaxing drinks.

Salud!