How to Discover Affordable Quality Wines
It’s a commonly held belief that to enjoy exceptional wine, you’ve got to make it rain. We’re told again and again that the best bottles come with hefty price tags, and many of us accept this without question when searching for a standout wine. Ourglass exists to show that great wine doesn't require a mortgage.
There’s some truth to this notion – but only partially. While very cheap wines are often mass-produced and unremarkable, the idea that you can’t find great wines at a lower price is one of the many myths perpetuated by wine snobbery.
The truth? You can drink fascinating, high-quality wine without emptying your wallet. You just need to know where to look. Here are some top tips to help you discover excellent wines at affordable prices.
1. Try overlooked grape varieties
Merlot, Trebbiano, Petit Verdot, and Marsanne might not have the cachet of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, but they’re often brimming with character and complexity. With over 2,000 grape varieties to explore, some of the best value wines come from these lesser-celebrated options.
Because they’re not on everyone’s radar, these grapes rarely carry the premium price tags of their trendier counterparts. Broaden your horizons and you may uncover a new favourite. Our guide to common grape varieties shows which overlooked ones punch above their weight."
2. Look beyond the big-name regions
Regions like Champagne and Bordeaux dominate wine lists and price tags, but you don’t have to stick to the classics to enjoy exceptional wine.
For instance, swap Champagne for Crémant, a sparkling wine crafted using the same traditional methods but from other parts of France. Or try Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley instead of pricier Burgundy whites. These lesser-known regions offer incredible wines at a fraction of the price.
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3. Ask for guidance
You don’t need to be a wine expert to find a great bottle – just know where to seek advice. Whether it’s a knowledgeable friend, a local wine merchant, or an online wine community, there’s no shortage of enthusiasts ready to share tips.
Staff at independent wine shops are often fonts of knowledge and can help you find great wines that suit both your taste and your budget. Subscribing to a curated wine service is a smart, convenient way to discover affordable, high-quality bottles.
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Why affordable doesn’t mean ordinary
Great wines often come from vineyards with low yields, where fewer grapes per vine create concentrated, nuanced flavours. These wines have depth and complexity, making them distinct from the high-yield, mass-produced bottles that flood supermarket shelves.
While low yields can sometimes mean higher costs, exploring lesser-known regions or grape varieties can uncover similarly remarkable wines without the price premium.
The final word
The wine world might still be full of myths, but don’t let them fool you. By experimenting with less familiar grapes, venturing into hidden gem regions, and seeking advice from trusted sources, you can stock your wine rack with brilliant, budget-friendly bottles.
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