Great Value Wines from Napa

There’s a reason why Napa Valley can be so expensive. It all started with winning the Judgment of Paris in 1976 when Napa Valley wines were, for the first time, tasted blind against Cabernets and Chardonnays from France, and prevailed. Napa wine is our Burgundy and Bordeaux, our fine wine. And to spend $60 or more makes sense. One would do the same for a Burgundy or Bordeaux. It is absolutely worth it to spend a little and see how wonderful these wines can be.

One reason why Napa cabs are so expensive is because land is so costly. In areas such as Rutherford, Yountville and Mount Veeder, land now costs $200,000 an acre!!

So, is there any way to enjoy great Napa Valley wine while not breaking the bank? Seek out some classic producers who have been making great wine for a long time and whose costs aren’t as great as newer wineries buying land at today’s premium price. Some examples are Robert Mondavi ($18-$25), Charles Krug ($20-$30), Clos Du Val ($10-15) and Beaulieu Vineyards ($8-$30). Also go for Napa Valley Merlot, despite what the movie #Sideways would have you believe! Napa Valley Merlot is a good value red wine, and often made in similar style and from some of the region’s leading Cabernet Sauvignon producers but at a lower price point.