When we talk about quality wines, it’s not always necessary to spend large sums of money to enjoy a good bottle. In Spain, a country with a rich winemaking tradition, it’s possible to find exceptional wines for under €20. Although some associate a high price with quality, the reality is that many of the best affordable Spanish wines offer an excellent sensory experience. Below, we’ll explain why cheap wines can also be good, what differentiates a good wine from a mediocre one, and provide a list of the best Spanish wines you can find without breaking the bank.
Why Can Cheap Wines Also Be Good?
The myth that “more expensive is better” does not always hold true in the world of wine. Several factors allow more affordable wines to offer excellent quality:
- Emerging or Lesser-Known Regions: Some of the best Spanish wines are bargains from lesser-known appellations. While regions like La Rioja or Ribera del Duero are famous, others like Somontano, Toro, or Jumilla produce high-quality wines at more affordable prices. These areas often have less international fame, which means prices are not as inflated.
- Local Production in Large Quantities: In Spain, wine production is widespread, and some wineries produce large quantities of wine without compromising quality. This reduces production costs and allows excellent wines to be sold at more accessible prices.
- Native Varieties: Some lesser-known grapes, like Mencía or Bobal, can produce complex and delicious wines at lower prices than more popular varieties like Tempranillo or Garnacha.
- Young or Short-Aged Wines: Wines that spend less time in oak barrels tend to be more affordable. While they may lack the complexity of aged wines, young wines are often fresh, fruity, and very pleasant to the palate.
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What Differentiates a Good Wine from a Mediocre One?
Regardless of the price, a good wine has certain characteristics that set it apart from a mediocre one. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Balance: A balanced wine means that none of its components overshadows the others. The balance between acidity, sweetness, tannins, and alcohol is essential. If any of these elements is disproportionate, the wine may be unpleasant.
- Aroma and Flavor: A good wine has a wide range of aromas and flavors that can evolve in the glass. Bad wines tend to be flat, with few nuances, or have defects such as vinegar or cork aromas.
- Persistence: The aftertaste or persistence of the wine is crucial. A quality wine leaves a pleasant taste in the mouth for a while after drinking it, while a bad wine fades quickly or leaves a bitter taste.
- Texture: The mouthfeel is also important. A good wine has a smooth, silky, or structured texture, depending on its style. A poor-quality wine may feel harsh or aggressive.
- Typicity: A good wine reflects the characteristics of its region and grape variety. This is known as typicity. If a wine tastes generic and does not reflect its origin, it is likely not of high quality.
List of the Best Spanish Wines for Under €20
With these considerations in mind, here is a selection of Spanish wines you can enjoy for under €20. Each has been chosen for its excellent value for money and represents the best that Spain has to offer.
1. LAN Crianza (Rioja)
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- Price: Around €10-12
- Description: A classic from La Rioja that never disappoints. This wine ages in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, which imparts notes of vanilla, spices, and ripe fruit. Its balance and elegance make it perfect for pairing with meats and stews.
- Why It Stands Out: LAN is a renowned winery, and despite its accessible price, this Crianza is a perfect example of a well-crafted wine.
2. Borsao Tres Picos (Campo de Borja)
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- Price: €15-17
- Description: This Garnacha wine is a true gem from Campo de Borja. It offers a burst of red fruit, with hints of spices and a long, silky finish. Perfect for fans of intense, fruity wines.
- Why It Stands Out: Garnacha from Campo de Borja has reached levels of excellence, and this wine is proof of that.
3. Viña Alberdi Reserva (Rioja)
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- Price: €18-20
- Description: A high-quality reserva wine, aged for two years in oak barrels. It has a complex flavor profile that includes red fruits, spices, and hints of leather. Its balance and smoothness make it an ideal wine for special occasions.
- Why It Stands Out: A reserva at this price is hard to find with such quality. It’s a safe bet for those looking for something more sophisticated.
4. Pago de los Capellanes Roble (Ribera del Duero)
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- Price: €15-18
- Description: This red from Ribera del Duero is fresh, with aromas of black fruits, floral notes, and hints of vanilla from its short aging in oak barrels. It is elegant with a long, balanced finish.
- Why It Stands Out: Pago de los Capellanes is a prestigious winery, and this wine exemplifies its quality at an affordable price.
5. Laya (Almansa)
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- Price: €6-8
- Description: An surprisingly affordable wine made with Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell varieties. It is powerful, with notes of ripe fruit, chocolate, and spices. Its structure and richness make it seem much more expensive than it actually is.
- Why It Stands Out: Laya is one of those wines that becomes a favorite for its excellent value for money.
6. Honoro Vera (Jumilla)
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- Price: €6-7
- Description: A young wine made from Monastrell grapes, offering a great concentration of black fruits and spices. It is easy to drink and perfect for pairing with casual dishes or barbecues.
- Why It Stands Out: Jumilla is a denomination known for offering great wines at very affordable prices, and this is a notable example.
7. Pétalos del Bierzo (Bierzo)