GIO'S TOP 8 WINES UNDER $15.00!

Times are tough right now, but you can place a top-notch wine on your family's table every week without breaking the bank. Here are my top eight wines under $15.00 US, all readily available and Gio-Approved:

FOUR CAN'T-MISS REDS

da Vinci Chianti, 2006, from Tuscano, Italy - 91+ points - great with pizza, red meats, pasta, and appetizers...or all by its lonesome. Lots of bad Chianti out there, but not this one. Heartwarming on those damp, chilly fall nights to come!

Buglioni Valpolicella Classico, 2008, from Veneto, Italy - 88+ points - dark cherry flavor, nice finish, solid taninns...not crazy about its nose, but the fruit-forward taste is delightful! A nicely balanced wine.

Ergo Tempranillo, 2007, from Rioja, Spain - 91+ points - an outstanding Spanish red, with good black pepper, tobacco, subtle fruit, and a solid finish.

Vitiano by Falesco, 2006, from Umbria, Italy - 90 points - A delicious Italian blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet and Merlot, full of jammy dark fruit, but also some complexity; nice acidity, and a solid finish, too.

FOUR CAN'T-MISS WHITES

Monte Palma Verdejo, 2008, from Rueda, Spain - 89 points - beautiful straw color with hints of green. Exceptional bouquet, with a delightful citrus that jumps from the glass. The taste begins with pineapple, and finishes with pear, offering a complexity not common to wines in this price range. And all of this from a 2008 vintage. Great wine for sipping on the deck or with appetizers or white griled meats. Salute'!

Nora Albarino, 2007, from Galicia, Spain - 91+ points - delicate fruit (especially pineapple), soft in the mouth, nice long finish, a very fresh wine...like a holiday for your mouth. (:

Il Prosecco by Mionetto Wines, Non-Vintage, from Veneto, Italy - 89 points -frizzanti, possessing a soft little fizz; color is translucent gold, with a gentle peach bouquet and the delicate, light flavor to match. Has a solid finish. Presentation is unique, too: the bottle is sleek and modern, colored green, with a contemporary look and a metal crown top. This is a winner!

Barone di Valforte Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, 2007, from Abruzzo, Italy - 89 points - loaded with flavorful fruit (apple mostly), with hints of green grass. A rich, delicious, and crisp wine, and on the dry side (fruity, but dry, not too sweet).