I do not know about you, but even in today's economy, I am not ready to go without a few niceties of life, as long as there are ways to still enjoy them without breaking the bank. One of those being a lovely glass (bottle) of wine while relaxing on the porch of my beach cottage.
Check out some of the best value wines, under the $10 mark, on the current wine market. These are budget friendly wines that have good consumer accessibility at very welcoming price points. They are high on flavor and drinkability and low on wallet strain, giving lots of bang for your wine buck!
Number 11? Oh just try it, you will be utterly surprised!

1. Blackstone Merlot (CA) $9

The Blackstone Merlot is a rich red wine, with an almost creamy texture. This Merlot has a flavor profile that is brimming over with ripe fruit flavors of plum and blackberry covered with a splash of vanilla - all perfectly rounded out with soft, squishy tannins. The Blackstone Merlot is exceptionally easy to find, well-priced and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pairs well with salmon, herbed chicken and a variety of pasta dishes.

2. Smoking Loon Syrah 2005 (CA) $9

The 2005 Smoking Loon Syrah is a dynamite deal for just $9 a pop. The ripe blackberry and dark cherry explode on the palate and mingle elegantly with herby undertones and peppery spice. This Syrah has an intensity that can stand up to a variety of flavorful and well-seasoned red meat dishes.

3. Francis Ford Coppola's Bianco Pinot Grigio (Coppola) 2006 (CA) $10

Francis Ford Coppola's Bianco Pinot Grigio is made for end of summer parties - a palate pleaser, this is a refreshing, bright white wine with plenty of zest. The nose is full of earthy undertones amidst melon and citrus aromas. The palate also has a citrus base, with a bit of kiwi and apple. Serve well chilled and enjoy with appetizers, especially apples and Muentster or mozzarella cheese, fresh clams, light entrees and tomato-based sauces.

4. Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Gewurztraminer 2006 (WA) $9

The 2006 Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Gewurztraminer brings a vibrant beat to summer sipping. It is a true crowd pleaser, perfect for backyard shin digs with its refreshing flavor profile, lower alcohol level and higher sugar content. This medium-bodied Gewurztraminer delivers pears packed in honey on the palate topped with a pinch of pumpkin spice. Perfect for Asian fare and even some Tex Mex as it can handle spice and some cilantro seasoning well. At $9 bucks a pop this is a fantastic wine to have on hand for virtually any occasion.

5. Osborne Solaz Tempranillo Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (Spain) $9

Osborne's Solaz Tempranillo Cab blend is a welcome addition to many a meal. It offers both bold berry intensity and food-friendly versatility. The flavor profile hosts cherry, blackberry and vanilla spice. The tannins are supportive and lend good structure, providing a more than adequate anchor to the bold fruit flavors. This elegant blend of Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon is made for grilled steaks, a peppered roast or flavorful sausage dishes.

6. Ravenswood Vintner's Blend Zinfandel (CA) 2005 $10

The Ravenswood Vintner's Blend Zinfandel is a well-known Zin that yields big flavor, lots of spice and very good value in the red wine market. It is consistent year in and year out, which is why it has a committed following in the Zinfandel circles. The 2005 vintage has noteable cherry and raspberry fruit with plenty of vanilla and spice to give it a bit of gusto, decisively living up to the Ravenswood motto of "No Wimpy Wines."

7. Benziger Sauvignon Blanc, North Coast 2006 (CA) $10

The 2006 Benziger Sauvignon Blanc is a shining example of what Sauv Blanc can and should be. In the glass, the color is medium yellow with the penetrating aromas of citrus well mingled with scents of flowers, grass and earth. The flavors are fresh and inviting - loads of lemon mixed with the heavier flavors of ripe peach and supported by a lively minerality. The acidity is well played and the finish is crisp, distinct and truly refreshing. Give this fantastic summer wine a go with lightly grilled fish, shrimp, veggies, summer salads and artichoke dip.

8. Mirassou Riesling 2006 (CA) $10

The 2006 Mirrassou Riesling offers elegance, value and a touch of Gewurztraminer, making for a well-received white wine that has the versatility to accompany a variety of seafood options as well as apple pie and other savory desserts. The flavor profile of this Riesling consists of juicy peach, crisp apple and a very engaging balance of sweetness and spice. The acidity and minerality combine to give a refreshing, lively palate presence. This is a good wine to have on hand for a variety of pairing options.

9. McManis Family Vineyard's Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 (CA) $10

McManis Family Vineyard's has created another tip top value wine in their 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine presents a burst of ripe berry - largely blackberry and dark cherry with some dark chocolate and a splash of coffee swirled in. Loads of lovely textures and flavors meld together to make this medium-bodied, well-balanced, well-priced red wine such an extraordinary find! McManis Family Vineyard's Cab may be one of the best everyday wines around, give it a go with an autumn chili, a peppery roast or tailgate party burgers and brats. You won't be disappointed.

10. Columbia Crest Chardonnay - Grand Estates Columbia Valley 2006 (WA) $10

This particular Columbia Crest Chardonnay offers a lot of bang for the buck. You'll notice an abundance of pear on the palate with plenty of butter in the balance. This is a surprisingly refined Chardonnay, with an ultra creamy texture and an interdependent display of acidity and oak. The price range varies from $8-12 depending on the vendor, so consider checking around on this one.

11. Oak Leaf Merlot - Oak Leaf Vineyards California $2.97

Yes, a whopping $2.97 without tax that is.. Do not send in the "oh you're cheap" emails, until you try it. You can pick this up at your local Walmart or it can also be found at Trader Joe's, but for a bit more. It's of course not in the range of a Chateau Petrus or a Haute Medoc, but its middle of the spectrum dryness and fruitiness is quite pleasing to the palate. And at this price, I can comfortably sit out a lengthy recession without giving up one of my favorite pastime moments on my porch.

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