Category: Cabernet Sauvignon

Country of Origin: California

Retail Price: $18.99

Tasting Notes: Sourced from mainly organic vineyards in Sonoma County, Camp Cabernet is a hidden gem in the under-$20 California cabernet world. A touch of merlot and malbec round out this fruit-forward-yet-restrained cabernet. The aging in neutral oak lets the fruit sing — and it shows.

Country of Origin: Washington

Retail Price: $44.99

Tasting Notes: Starting from scratch in 2013, this Duckhorn offering from Washington’s famed Red Mt. appellation keeps getting better and better. Mountain fruit from 13 other select parcels adds to the complexity. Classic Bordeaux-style blend is very harmonious and structured. 18 months in oak helps to soften the very concentrated fruit. Wild red and black fruit notes dominate, with a finish like a caramel macchiato.

Country of Origin: California

Appellation: Lake County

Retail Price: $17

Tasting Notes: This Cabernet is full bodied, textured and concentrated, brimming with black cherry, wild berry, black licorice, sage and currant flavors. The finish is supple and smooth, with just enough spice and tannins.

Country of Origin: Washington

Retail Price: $21.99

Tasting Notes: The addition of malbec and merlot to this Red Mountain cabernet adds character, complexity and depth without losing the identity of cabernet sauvignon. Hightower cellars outdid themselves with their Murray label Cabernet. Try this for your next gathering and see peoples faces light up when you tell them this was barely $20!

Country of Origin: Washington

Retail Price: $16

Tasting Notes: From one of Washington's pioneering wineries. Very enjoyable, with supple dark fruit, and lush style tannins. This well-balanced cabernet is an excellent value at this price/performance.