Expensive Taste - Affordable Price

Written by Joshua Luman

It's time we answer the age-old question, "How do I drink like a millionaire even if I'm not one?" Unfortunately, not all of us have handsome collections of Petrus and Screaming Eagle buried away in our own private cellar. And most of us will never spring for the 1973 Chateau Montelena at the high-end steak house. But that doesn't mean you can't experience a world of wines that taste like they were meant to be drank from a golden chalice. Just because it didn't make Wine Spectator's top 100 or require a second mortgage to buy, doesn't mean there aren't wines out there that pack a lot of bang for a little buck. The following wines all cost less than $20 but taste like a hundred bucks. Serve these up to guests at your next dinner party or cocktail mixer and they will think you must be rolling in the dough!

Westrey Pinot Gris (Oregon)-This is a beautiful summer wine with fl avors of pear and ripe peach, and a subtle finish of melon that leaves a clean and refreshing mouth-feel. Westrey is perfect with prosciutto and parmesan, or fresh fruit.

Rainier Ridge Chardonnay (Washington)-Great for the chardonnay drinker looking to get away from the heavy oak bite and finish of many California wines. This wine is full of apricot, peach, citrus, and a subtle caramel notes. Delicious with any sautéed fish or summer salad.

Babcock Pinot Noir (California)-Ripe dark fruit, ginger and nutmeg spice make this wine perfect for even the most discriminating palate. Very light and soft bodied make it a wonderful spring time patio or backyard wine.

Worthy 'Sophia's Cuvee' Cabernet (California)- The little brother to the legendary Axios, this wine is dark and earthy and everything a true Napa cab should be. Pair it with a classic grilled steak and watch as everyone's eyes light up. This is a stunning wine sure to knock anyone's socks off.

Remember, find wine that YOU love, and drink plenty of it!