30 Wines Under $30
Quality wine doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Finding these quality wines under $30 can prove to be quite exhausting. You have to experience a lot of bad eggs before you find the perfect one. Let’s be honest, no one really wants to do that. So, I have done the work for you.
Looking for affordable wine options? Look no further than this comprehensive list of wines that won’t break the bank. From sparkling wines to whites, rosés, and reds, there’s something for everyone. Each wine is carefully selected to showcase its terroir and the winemaker’s exceptional skill. These wines are an excellent representation of their varietal and can be enjoyed at home or as the perfect addition to your next dinner party
Sparkling Wines
Discover Exceptional Bubblies for Less Than $30
Who says you can’t enjoy a glass of bubbly without breaking the bank? These sparkling wine options prove that you don’t need to spend a lot to savor the effervescence. Each of these wines represents a distinct style that’s sure to thrill your palate, and they’re all priced under $30 – what could be better than that?
Gerard Bertrand Cuvée Thomas Jefferson Cremant de Limoux Brut Rosé 2017.
-Languedoc-Roussillon, France-
Wines Under $30
This is by far my favorite sparkling wine for the price. I have always said that bubbles are something worth spending a bit more money on, this is the exception to that rule. Gerard Bertrand’s exceptional winemaking skills are clear from your first sip of this sparkling rosè. Your mouth explodes with a flurry of bubbles filling your palate with flavors of raspberry, strawberry, and baked bread. The bubbles are lively and delicate, and no flavor dominates the next. At an average of $17, these bubbles are perfect for any occasion. Pair with salmon and Lox for a perfect start to your day.
Average Price: $17
*She Knows Wines top pick, Sparkling Category, Top 30 Wines Under $30*
Available on Wine.com
Roederer Estate Brut
-Anderson Valley, Mendocino, California-
The Louis Roederer Champagne House was first founded in 1776 and taken over and renamed in 1833. It remains one of the only family-owned and independently operated Maison de Champagne (Champagne House) in the Champagne region today. In 1988 the decision was made to debut their first California produced sparkling wine, Roederer Estate Brut. Made from organically and biodynamically farmed grapes grown 100% on their Anderson Valley estate. Each year’s blend is composed of a percentage of multiple vintages of reserve wines, aged in oak. The proximity to the ocean leads to cool nights allowing the grapes to mature slowly. The result is a beautifully balanced sparkling wine with delicate bubbles, expressing finesse and depth of flavor. Notes of Asian pear, hazelnut, and slight citrus undertones make this a great sparkling wine for only $22.
Average Price: $22
La Marca Prosecco
-Italy-
Founded in 1968 La Marca has been a tested and true Prosecco producer for years. In 2007 they became the only Prosecco producer in the Veneto region of Italy awarded a “Top 100 Wine of The Year” by Wine Spectator. Delicate bubbles and flavors of crisp green apple and lemon peel make La Marca a refreshing and approachable choice for only $13. A perfect pair with prosciutto wrapped mozzarella, pizza, or tempura fried veggies.
Average Price: $13
White Wines Under $30
This list is curated in a progressive fashion, meaning the wines become fuller in body and structure as you read on. Whether you’re a fan of crisp, light-bodied whites or prefer more robust flavors, there is a wine on this list that is sure to please every white wine drinker.
Broadbent Vinho Verde
-Portugal-
Wines Under $30
The Broadbent family has been famous throughout Portugal for many years. This passion project is the result of the realization that Vinho Verde just never tastes the same in the states as it does in Portugal. It was Bartholomew Broadbent’s mission to change that, and show the world exactly what this “green grape” has to offer. Taking the time to establish connections with dependable growers and ship the wine over in refrigerated containers to preserve its freshness he has done just that. Costing you only $8 on average, this is a wine that I always have a bottle of at home. The light efflorescence and lemon-lime flavors make it the perfect wine to enjoy on its own or while brunching with your ladies. At only 9% abv you don’t have to feel guilty about keeping the whole bottle to yourself.
Average Price: $8
Tasting Notes
*She knows Wines top pick, least expensive, Top 30 Wines Under $30*
Available on Wine.com
Weingüter Wegeler Riesling Charta 2016
-Rheingau, Germany-
A beautiful expression of German riesling coming out of the Rheingau region. This dry Riesling showcases great minerality with notes of flintstone. It is filled with lush stone fruit components, apple, and lemon-lime flavors. With its subtle residual sugar, bright acid, and mineral-driven finish it will pair with a variety of cuisine. Coming in right around $20 it is a great wine to sip on a beautiful summer day or to pair with some spicy and delicious Thai food. Its alcohol percent sits right around 12% you don’t have to feel bad about keeping this bottle all to yourself.
Average Price: $21
Tasting Notes
Dönnhoff Estate Riesling Trocken 2018
-Nahe, Germany-
Wines Under $30
The Nahe region of Germany is one of my favorites for riesling. Using grapes sourced from their vineyard that have been 100% organically grown for over 200 years, this is a pure expression of Riesling from the Nahe region. Boasting flavors of granny smith apples, honeydew, lemon zest, white flower, and an uncanny slate minerality. For $22 this is a wine I like to have a bottle of on hand. The region benefits from volcanic soils with exceptional drainage and high pH, leading to the excellent minerality layered throughout this wine. This off-dry white wine is deep and complex. Dönnhoff is a truly quality riesling. A bottle of Dönnhoff Riesling provides one of my all-time favorite experiences, Riesling and spicy yellow curry, a match made in Heaven.
Average Price: $22
*She Knows Wines top pick, Riesling, Top 30 Wines Under $30*
Available on Wine.com
Selbach-Oster Kabinette Riesling 2015
-Mosel, Germany-
The Selbach family has been making wine in the Mosel region of Germany since the 1600s, making The Selbach Oster name synonymous with quality wine. They use a hands-on in the vineyard and a hands-off in the cellar approach, allowing their grapes to speak for themselves. This is a pure expression of dry riesling coming out of the region, showcasing flavors of stone fruit, apple, vanilla,and honey. This Riesling pairs with a variety of cuisines. If you are looking for a sweeter version of riesling they make that too.
Average Price: $25
Tasting Notes
Empire Estate Dry Riesling 2017
-Finger Lakes, New York-
Coming from the up and coming Finger Lakes region this riesling showcases the winemakers’ ability to make an old-world style wine with new world grapes. There are subtle notes of residual sugar dominated by bursting acid that leaves your palate begging for more. Notes of passion fruit and golden apple blend together leading to a slate and limestone minerality. This wine is perfectly balanced and was a pleasant surprise I found at my local COSTCO. This is a go-to for me to drink while enjoying a book on my patio on a bright summer’s day. This dry riesling pairs with a variety of cuisine from spicy Thai food, seafood pasta, to chicken lettuce wraps.
Average Price: $18
Tasting Notes
Brooks Amycus White Blend 2019
-Willamette Valley, Oregon-
Wines Under $30
One of my favorite wines coming from Brooks Wines in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon. This wine was created by their founder Jimi Brooks to showcase the amicability of the noble Alsatian grapes it is a blend of. On the nose, you’re hit with floral notes of lilac, jasmine, and orange blossom. Bursting with flavor it is exceptionally balanced and complex. Every time I open a bottle of this wine I am blown away, and always have to have a bottle on hand. This is winemakers wine, showcasing the love that went into making it in every sip.
Average Price: $18
*She Knows Wines top pick, Dinner Party White Wine, Top 30 Wines Under $30*
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Selbach-Oster Pinot Blanc 2016
-Mosel, Germany-
This delicious dry German wine is described by its winemaker as a “friend-making wine” which could not be more true. Flavors of green apple, pear, lemon curd, and subtle ginger spice are flawlessly layered throughout. The acid is well balanced and never overbearing. For over 400 years the Selbach family has been making wine in the Mosel region of Germany, and they have hit it out of the park with this one. It’s $20 price point makes it an excellent wine to accompany you to any dinner party.
Average Price: $20
Trimbach Pinot Blanc 2018
-Alsace, France-
Trimbach has been known for making wines in their purest style for three centuries, spanning over thirteen generations. True to their traditions this pinot blanc showcases aromas of white flower, apricot, white peach, and pear. On the palate, there is a powerful freshness with a medium body and balanced acid. Cellar aged for two years before its release once it has reached the perfect balance of fruit and acid. Perfect for a summer day. Pair with an Asian chicken salad or your favorite book.
Average Price: $20
Spy Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2018
-Marlborough, New Zealand-
First founded in 1993, the Johnson family has consistently been producing quality Sauvignon Blanc reflective of the Marlborough region for over a decade. Showcasing staple New Zealand flavors of grapefruit, lemon, lime, guava, and green bell pepper. This has been one of my go-to Sauvignon Blancs for years. I have said many times that I wish I could bottle up all the aromas of this wine and turn them into a candle. The nose is almost as expressive and inviting as the palate. Using sustainably sourced fruit from a particularly warm vintage, 2018 has a lot to say. Showcasing full fruit flavors with perfectly balanced lively acid each sip leaves your palate begging for more. For an average of $16, this is an excellent pair with grilled artichoke or your favorite oysters.
Average Price: $16
Daou Sauvignon Blanc 2018
-Paso Robles, California-
The 2018 vintage was Daou’s first vintage of Sauvignon Blanc. Sticking true to their traditions of using old world traditions and new world techniques they have made a balanced and refreshing white wine. Cool temperatures leading up to harvest allowed the fruit to have prolonged hang time. This leads to a better overall balance and concentration of flavors. Notes of lemongrass, green apple, nectarine, and pineapple lead to a long clean finish. This wine is an excellent summertime sip. A perfect pair for an artichoke and goat cheese flatbread.
Average Price: $15
Martin Codax Albarino 2018
-Rias Baixas, Spain-
Founded in 1986 by a group of winegrowers in the Rias Baixas region of Spain. Martin Codax Albarino is made using 100% Albarino grapes. Employing traditional winemaking methods and advanced viticulture practices this wine evokes a sense of place. The seaside vineyards along a rocky coastline produce a radiant white wine with ripe citrus and just enough body. Reminiscent of a warm summer’s day spent by the ocean this wine is crisp, clean, and inviting. A great happy hour choice paired with Spanish style tapas.
Average Price: $15
King Estate Pinot Gris 2018
-Willamette Valley, Oregon-
King Estate’s flagship wine made using a mix of certified organic, biodynamic, and sustainably sourced grapes throughout the Willamette Valley region of Oregon. Fermented 100% in stainless steel and sur lie aged for four months before bottling. Citrus notes of lemon and key lime blend with honeysuckle, white peach, and pear. This luscious and refreshing white wine is excellent on its own or paired with soft cheeses or your favorite grilled white fish.
Average Price: $16
Feudi Di San Gregorio Falanghina 2017
-Campania, Italy-
Often drank in Italy as an aperitif this vibrant white wine from Italy’s Campania region has long been a favorite of mine. Feudi Di San Gregorio looks at winemaking as a shared creative work of art. With its round mouthfeel, subtle almond finish, crisp green apple, and bountiful minerality this a diverse white table wine. I recommend this wine to people who like the full mouthfeel of chardonnay but don’t prefer the oaky and buttery characteristics that often come with Chardonnay. This Falanghina will make a great starter wine for your next dinner party. Drink it as an aperitif or pair it with your favorite seafood pasta or classic caesar salad.
Average Price: $16
Tasting Notes
Neyers Chardonnay Carneros 2016
-Carneros Districts, St. Helena, California-
This is a winemaker’s wine, exhibiting both diversity and finesse. Using whole cluster grapes, new French oak, and undergoing natural malolactic fermentation without the use of artificial starters this is perfectly balanced chardonnay. Unlike many California chardonnays, its oak is refined, balanced, and never overbearing. With notes of hazelnut and crème brûlée, back tones of juicy citrus, and well-integrated toasted marshmallow this wine truly delivers. This chardonnay checks all the boxes, even for a picky chardonnay drink like myself. Pair with a creamy seafood risotto or mushroom stuffed roasted quail.
Average Price: $27
Tasting Notes
Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay 2017
-Santa Lucia Highlands, California-
This is everything I hate about Chardonnay, so why do I love it so damn much? The simple answer is because it is downright amazing! It begs the question, how much butter is too much butter? The answer, a lot more than you think. Usually, when it comes to Chardonnay winemakers take it too far, making a wine that does not taste natural. This is not what happened with Mer Soleil. Started by Chuck Wagner, known for founding Caymus in, and now run by his son. Fermented and aged in new and used French oak barrels. Only a portion of the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, ensuring the buttery element is not overbearing. Hand stirred in the barrels imparting a perfect creamy texture. The result, a dramatic and artistically made Chardonnay, achieving a perfect balance between all elements. Notes of caramel apple and lemon meringue pie blend together leaving a lasting impression on your palate. This wine shows the ability to age in the cellar for many years to come.
Average Price: $27
Rosé Wines
Don’t be fooled by the idea that quality rosé wines are expensive. There are many options available on a budget. From refreshing rosés that are perfect to drink on their own, to exceptional choices that pair well with a variety of cuisines, this list has you covered.
Broadbent Vinho Verde Rosé
-Portugal-
Made by renowned winemaker Batholomew Broadbent and a collaboration of partners throughout Portugal. I would honestly consider substituting this for my favorite sparkling water. This rosé is light and refreshing with a low abv making it completely acceptable to forget you’re drinking wine altogether and sip your day away. Made using exclusively lesser-known red wine grapes and gentle juice extraction methods. The result is a refreshing wine with flavors of strawberry, kiwi, and watermelon. A slight spritz makes this an excellent summertime sidekick as you lay by the pool.
Average Price: $9
Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas Rosé 2018
-Paso Robles, California-
Tablas Creek began making Rhône style blends coming out of the Paso Robles region of California in 1989. Importing cuttings from Rhône and sourcing fruit from the top Rhône style vineyards their entire line of wines is impressive. This rosé consisting of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Counoise is refined with excellent body and balance. Notes of strawberry, under ripened raspberry, and blood orange fuse with lemon, sea salt, and crushed rock. This is a beautiful expression of dry rosé. Pair with fried chicken or Mediterranean cuisine.
Average Price: $24
Red Wines Under $30
This compilation of red wines, listed in order of depth and structure, offers a diverse selection under $30. As you peruse the list, expect to find an increasing richness and complexity with each wine.
Willamette Valley Vineyards Whole Cluster Pinot Noir 2018
-Willamette Valley, Oregon-
Fermented from uncrushed pinot noir grapes to retain fresh fruit characteristics this pinot noir is delicious with or without age. The nose prepares you for flavors of deep rich dark fruits, dried flowers, and forest floor. Upon your first sip, your palate is filled with lush berries, baking spice, and balanced acidity. This $22 pinot noir is a diverse choice to go with a variety of dishes including filet mignon and cedar plank salmon. Created to drink young this is an affordable version of the elegant pinot noirs coming out of Oregon’s Willamette Valley region.
Average Price: $22
Schug Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2018
-Sonoma Coast, California-
Schug has created a well balanced and approachable Pinot Noir. Using Sonoma Coast’s cool climate the grapes mature slowly while retaining their natural acidity. Aged using neutral and old French oak barrels to impart just the slightest oak element. This 100% pinot noir cuvée boast flavors of cherry cola and pomegranate blending with white pepper and sweet tobacco. Pair with a mushroom stuffed roasted quail or serve at your next BBQ.
Average Price: $20
E. Guigal Côte du Rhône Red Blend 2016
-Rhône, France-
A different take on a well known GSM blend, using 50% syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvedre. The syrah forward base leads to greater aromatics and structure. Made from a collection of 80 growers from vines an average of 35 years old and aged for 18 months in oak. A surprisingly balanced and dynamic red wine for $16. Flavors of cherry, raspberry, and cola blend with subtle white pepper spice and soft tannins. This medium-bodied red is food and people-friendly.
Average Price: $16
Tasting Notes
Tablas Creek Patelin de Tablas 2017
-Paso Robles, California-
Consistently providing excellent food-friendly wines Tablas Creek has hit it out of the park once again. This is an exquisite representation of Rhône style red wine coming out of the Paso Robles region of California. Flavors remain refined and delicate on the palate while exhibiting compelling complexity. This blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Counoise is sure to please even the pickiest of wine drinkers. Ready to drink now with the structure capable of again for several more years. Excellent pair for braised meats.
Average Price: $25
Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato 2016
– Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy –
Grown among 790 acres of rolling hillsides known as the “Bolgheri Amphitheatre” providing both sunshine and a constant breeze to ensure grapes ripen properly. Fruit components are well integrated and don’t dominate the palate. The proximity to the ocean leads to a pleasurable salinity. The result is a beautifully complex expression of wine from the Bolgheri DOC. With its warm and round mouthfeel, ripened cherry, vestigial aspect of mint, and slight salinity this wine will pair well with a wide variety of cuisine. It is sure to impress pinot noir and cabernet drinkers alike.
Average Price: $30
Casa Smith Cervo Barbera 2017
-Washington-
Wines Under $30
Charles Smith is one of Washington state’s most famous independent winemakers and the owner of one of the largest urban wineries on the west coast. This Barbera is one of the four wines in his Casa Smith line, dedicated to making classic Italian varietals grown in Washington State. The grapes are grown in the Wahluke Slope AVA, a subregion of the Columbia Valley AVA, meaning “watering place”. Sourced from single vineyard selections, this Barbera is everything and more you would expect from Charles Smith. Expertly balanced notes of red and black fruit blend with flavors of tobacco and baking spice. The fruit is present yet refined with no element dominating the next. With every sip, I become more enamoured. Experiencing this unprecedented Barbera should be on everyone’s to-do list. Absolute must-try for wines under $30!
Average Price: $20
*She Knows Wines, top red, 30 Wines Under $30*
Department 66 ‘Others’ Red Blend 2015
-Languedoc-Roussillon, France-
Made from famous winemaker Dave Phinney, known for his ‘Location Wine’ series. Phinney sought out to create a Grenache forward red wine that drinks well young. The grapes are sourced from vineyards surrounding Orin Swift vineyards in Maury, France. Many of the vines are older than 60 years. Aged for 18 months in 30% new French oak and spending another 5 months aging in the bottle before being released. A blend of lush blue fruit, dried lavender, chocolate, cherry cola, licorice, and baking spice fills the palate. Gripping tannins lead into a long dry finish. For $25 this is an above-average Grenache made from a truly exceptional winemaker.
Average Price: $25
Tasting Notes
Bodegas Garzon Tannat Reserva 2017
-Uruguay-
wines under $30
The first time I tried this wine I immediately returned to the wine shop for a second bottle. Initially, I was enticed by the unusual idea of creating a wine from 100% Tannat. I was drawn back by the expertly crafted lush and gripping tannins in this unique red wine. Grown in Uruguay’s coastal hillside and benefitting from the differing humidity the grapes reach optimal ripeness. The palate reveals notes of lush juicy dark fruits, black tea, and beautifully layered floral components. For $17 this wine is sure to have everyone talking at your next BBQ.
Average Price: $17
*She Knows Wines, the most bang for your buck red, 30 Wines Under $30*
Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma County 2017
-Sonoma, California-
This expertly crafted Zinfandel is sourced from multiple lots throughout Sonoma county. A small amount of petite syrah is added for extra color and structure. An excellent bottle for when you have a variety of different styles of red wine drinkers. Ripe raspberry and blueberry with well-integrated spice and soft tannins lead to notes of tobacco, leather, and chocolate. This medium-bodied red wine is filled with structure and flavor making it a great pair for charcuterie, BBQ chicken, as well as lamb.
Average Price: $20
Tasting Notes
Vasse Felix ‘Filius’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
-Margaret River, Australia-
Wines under $30
Finding a quality tasting Cabernet for under $30 can be a difficult task. The Margaret River region of Australia runs along the western coast. Its location allows for high yields and great acid retention. Made using whole cluster grapes and wild yeast, already residing on the grapes, for fermentation. This is an excellent representation of Cabernet for the price. Notes of blackberry, raspberry, blackcurrant, and dried flower co-mingle with layers of clay minerality throughout. Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon (85%), blending with 11% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot to maintain a soft lush mouthfeel.
Average Price: $24
*She Knows Wines, top Cabernet Sauvignon, 30 Wines Under $30*