10/10/2025
I’ve spent my entire life in the wine world — as a wine merchant, importer, writer, ambassador, consultant and now a wine entertainer. Wine isn’t just my profession; it’s my passion. I’ve been lucky enough to taste some of the most prized (and pricey!) wines from around the world. Many of them have been truly sublime.
But here’s the truth... I’ve become a bit of a wine skeptic when it comes to price.
There has never been a better time to be a wine drinker. There are so many grapes, regions, and producers creating incredible wines and competing for your attention. The quality across the board has never been higher.
So I’m going to say something bold:
👉 There’s no reason to spend more than $25 on a bottle of wine.
Seriously.
Well… with three exceptions. 😉
1️⃣ Place
If you can taste the difference between a true Champagne and a Cava from Spain — buy the Champagne! But if you’ve never tried Cava, you’re missing out. Most are under $15, made in the same traditional method as Champagne, and deliver amazing quality. So unless you can truly taste the terroir, go for the Cava and enjoy the savings.
If you adore Napa Cabernets (and who doesn’t?), you probably won’t find one for under $25. Boy, is that true! But here’s a tip: seek out a Cabernet from Chile. The country produces some of the best Cabs in the world — and you’ll find plenty of delicious bottles well under $25.
2️⃣ Age
Most wines on store shelves are from the current vintage — meant to be enjoyed now. But some wines truly do get better with time. I’ll happily splurge on a well-aged Brunello or Bordeaux that’s been resting for years. Those are worth the extra money.
Want something that’s already been aged for you? Look for a Gran Reserva Rioja. These Spanish wines have been aged for at least five years (sometimes more!) before release. Aged wine without the high price tag — that’s a win.
3️⃣ Emotion
You visit a winery, have an incredible tour, taste (and taste again 😉), and before you know it, you’ve joined the wine club. Your credit card gets charged every few months, but you don’t mind — because now there’s a story and a memory behind each sip. That emotional connection? Priceless.
So yes… $25. That’s the sweet spot.
If you can find a “stunt double” — a wine that tastes remarkably similar to your favorite expensive bottle — that’s your cue to buy it. Heck, buy a case!
There’s never been a better time to drink well, enjoy more, and spend smart. 🍷
