Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Lydia Martin
The best red blend wines don’t need to be expensive. You might be surprised to know that some of the excellent red blends are under $20. That’s right! There are red blend wines that won’t break your bank.
But among all the expressions we’ve tried – from velvety Cabernet Sauvignon to charming Shiraz, we personally hand-picked every bottle in this list because each brings affordable excellence to wine glasses.
So, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, here are the best red wine blends under $20.
Table of Contents
ToggleTop 15 Red Wine Blends Under $20
1. H&B (Hecht & Bannier) Minervois 2013
Average Price: around $20/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Black and red fruits
Palate: Mediterranean herb notes
Blends: Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvedre, and Carignan grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This red enchants our nose and palate with the essence of Mediterranean herbs. We like its vibrant character from the delightful blend of the grape varieties.
Its vibrant character is also perfect for pairing with a range of dishes, like roast chicken (the best!).
2. TerraQuilia Falconero Zero I.G.P. Emilia-Romagna Sparkling Red Wine 2017
Average Price: around $18.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 11.5% ABV
Nose: aromatic red fruit
Palate: Refreshing effervescence
Blends: Lambrusco and Malbo Gentile grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: If you’re not into full-bodied wines, we suggest this TerraQuilia Falconero Sparkling Red Wine 2017. It boasts an aromatic nose with a refreshing palate, giving a unique twist on tradition.
“Drinking good wine with good food in good company is one of life’s most civilized pleasures.” – Michael Broadbent, British Wine Critic
It’s one of our favorites due to its lively character and crisp flavors. This bottle never fails to bring a sense of celebration to any occasion.
3. Luyt Pipeño Carrizal Chile País Familia Ernesto Soto 2019
Average Price: around $18.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 12.7% ABV
Nose: aromatic and rustic
Palate: Berry-spiced
Blends: Pais grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: We particularly like the rustic charm of this delicious red wine. With its unique character and balanced flavors, this is one of the best Chilean wines we have tried.
We recommend this expression for beginners – it’s captivating and intriguing.
4. Matthiasson Tendu California 2018
Average Price: around $18/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 12.5% ABV
Nose: Bright red fruit scents
Palate: Refreshing vitality
Blends: Aglianico, Montepulciano and Barbera grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: Matthiasson Tendu California Red Wine 2018 is one of the red blends oozing with bright tasting notes, particularly the nose. It’s also a refreshing red blend, providing a unique profile.
With its vibrant character and lively flavors, we admire its ability to infuse every sip with a sense of Californian energy and style. Actually, we prefer this red blend over Apothic Red.
5. Chronic Cellars Suite Petite 2013
Average Price: around $17/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Dark fruit fusion
Palate: Cocoa-infused richness
Blends: Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Zinfandel wine grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: Another one of the best red blends, the Chronic Cellars Suite Petite 2013, marries four varieties of grapes – Syrah, Petite Sirah [1], Grenache, and Zinfandel. We like its boldness with captivating flavors and velvety texture.
If you want depth yet approachable, we highly recommend this red blend’s perfect tasting notes!
6. Cliffhanger Vineyards Proprietary Red Blend 2013
Average Price: around $15.54/750ml (Vivino)
Alcohol Content: 13% ABV
Nose: Dark fruit, black cherry
Palate: Oak-kissed complexity
Blends: Teroldego and Lagrein grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This 2013 Cliffhanger Vineyards Proprietary Red Blend boasts an enticing nose with a palate enriched by the complexity of oak. The blend of flavors unfolds with each sip, showcasing the artistry of meticulous blending.
Its intricate tasting notes make this red blend an admirable expression that keeps us engaged from the first pour to the last drop.
7. Cotes du Rhone Samorens 2014, Ferraton
Average Price: around $15.99/750ml (Vivino)
Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Red fruit medley
Palate: Silky cherries
Blends: Syrah, Cinsault, and Grenache grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: Crafted from three grape varieties, this rich red blend provides our senses with a captivating aroma and smooth tannins. We like the lingering finish – perfect for grilled meats.
Besides, this French red blend captures the essence of the Rhone Valley, giving away tasting notes that feel vibrant and nuanced.
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8. Casa Cadaval, Trincadeira Preta 2011
Average Price: around $14/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Juicy berry
Palate: Subtle notes of smoke
Blend: Trincadeira Preta grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: We like its juicy aroma, leading to a palate enhanced by a subtle smokiness. It gives the flavor balance with a unique red blend of fruitiness and subtle complexity.
9. Domaine de L’Obrieu Cuvee Les Antonins 2010
Average Price: around $14.43/750ml (Vivino)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Dark fruit aromas
Palate: Earthy elegance
Blends: Shiraz and Grenache grapes
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Why We Like It: This red blend is a medium-bodied wine oozing with a captivating aroma and palate. The firm tannins harmoniously blend with the flavors. It has great depth and character, which we really enjoy.
The layered flavors and balanced character of this red blend can elevate both casual evenings and special gatherings.
10. Birillo Costa Toscana 2013
Average Price: around $11.95/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 14.5% ABV
Nose: Dark cherry and spice
Palate: Rich and balanced
Blends: Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: This red blend impresses us with its captivating blend of aroma. Its rich and balanced profile has personally won us over, making it a stellar choice for those seeking a well-rounded wine.
We like the silky texture and balanced tasting notes that give the vibes of the sun-soaked vineyards of Italy with every sip.
But is it okay to mix red and white wine?
11. Fiuza Premium Alicante Bouschet 2014
Average Price: around $11/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14% ABV
Nose: Deep berry richness
Palate: Spiced complexity
Blend: Alicante Bouschet (cross of Petit Bouschet and Grenache grapes)
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: This expression unfolds a spiced complexity, showcasing a distinct, bold, and intriguing character. We like its well-integrated tasting notes and layers of taste.
Among other red blends from Portugal, this is one of the unique-tasting wines we’ve tried. This is a must-try if you want to explore beyond the classic tasting notes.
12. Julia James Pinot Noir 2015
Average Price: around $11/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Red currant notes
Palate: Subtle spice notes
Blend: Pinot Noir grapes
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: The red blend exudes an alluring scent that leads to a subtly spiced palate. The tasting notes are dominated by Pinot Noir grapes [2], giving a refined and approachable profile.
With its delicate flavors and smooth texture, this wine is perfect for elevating any occasion with a touch of sophistication and charm. Compared to Apothic Red, we enjoy this Julia James more.
13. Alamos Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Average Price: around $9.98/750ml (Vivino)
Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Ripe berries
Palate: Velvety blackberries
Blends: Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: This red blend wine exudes a captivating symphony of ripe berry aromas seamlessly transitioning to a velvety blackberry palate with a smooth texture and well-balanced profile.
Also, its smooth finish makes it an ideal companion for a cozy evening.
14. La Linda Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Average Price: around $9/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14% ABV
Nose: Black cherry notes
Palate: Milk chocolate, balanced richness
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: For those looking for a full-bodied wine at a very affordable price, we recommend La Linda Cabernet Sauvignon 2014.
You’ll like its bold character and smooth texture, with an approachable nature and harmonious flavors.
15. Domaine de Fondreche, Nature, 2014
Average Price: around $8/750ml (Wine-Searcher)
Alcohol Content: 14% ABV
Nose: Rich, red fruit
Palate: Floral, wild berries
Blends: Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvedre, and Cinsault grapes
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Why We Like It: This red blend boasts a vibrant nose that seamlessly transitions to floral finesse. We like the harmonious interplay of flavors with an organic nature and refined character.
“Red wine is where elegance and depth intertwine in every sip.” – Liquor Laboratory
Despite its lower price tag, you can count on the quality and exceptional taste of this wine [3].
Note: The star rating was determined based on a blind test, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. Each product was evaluated on its overall quality, flavor profile, complexity, smoothness, and overall enjoyment.
FAQs Related to Best Red Wine Blends Under $20
What are some of the best red wine blends available for under $20?
There are several excellent red wine blends that offer exceptional quality and value for under $20. Some popular options include Apothic Red, 19 Crimes Red Blend, and Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon.
Why is Apothic Red often recommended as a top choice under $20?
Apothic Red is a popular red wine blend known for its smooth and approachable character. It combines Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon to create a fruit-forward profile with notes of dark berries, vanilla, and hints of chocolate.
What sets 19 Crimes Red Blend apart as a great value wine?
19 Crimes Red Blend offers an intriguing blend of Shiraz, Grenache, and Mataro (Mourvèdre) grapes, resulting in a bold and flavorful wine with notes of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of oak. It’s known for its smooth tannins and rich texture.
Can you recommend a specific vintage of Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon in the under $20 range?
Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon consistently delivers quality and value across vintages. Look for recent vintages, such as 2018 or 2019, which offer ripe fruit flavors, robust structure, and a smooth finish.
What other red wine blends are worth considering in the under $20 price range?
Additional red wine blends to explore include Menage a Trois Red Blend, Dark Horse Big Red Blend, and Josh Cellars Legacy Red Blend.
In Summary
After tasting various budget-friendly red blend options, all these 15 expressions stand out, providing a satisfying sipping experience.
However, there’s one blend that caught our taste buds big time – and that’s the 2013 H&B (Hecht & Bannier) Minervois.
The harmonious blend of red and black fruits, coupled with Mediterranean herb notes, provides an ultimate sipping experience without the need to splurge.
It’s affordable but has good quality, which we highly recommend if you opt for taste and value. Cheers!
References:
- https://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/if-you-must-have-a-california-wine-make-it-petite-sirah/
- https://uk.news.yahoo.com/pinot-noir-versatile-global-favourite-115134533.html
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/wine
- https://www.theguardian.com/food/2023/may/26/south-australian-cabernet-sauvignon-selling-for-40-named-best-in-world