9 Stellar Cabernet Sauvignons Below $20

The wonderful red wines from Napa Valley or Bordeaux are not the most affordable in the world, but they are delicious. However, that doesn’t mean you must spend a lot to enjoy a Cabernet Sauvignon. There are many delicious wines available for as low as $20 from around the globe. The trick is to know their location and pair them with great food.

These wines, which are listed alphabetically, do not represent a comprehensive list of affordable Cabs. However, they are worth checking out. Cabernet Sauvignon lovers enjoy a golden age of the grape variety, whether in the northern or south hemispheres, the Old World or New or producers that require some searching. These are great places to start.

2019 Be Human Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Washington ($17)

This wine is a testament to Washington State’s value right now, thanks to the Aquilini family. This wine has attractive notes of brambly fruits and chocolate thanks to the addition of 6% Petit Verdot and its 19-month aging in 1/3 new oak.

2018 Carmel “Appellation” Cabernet Sauvignon, Galilee, Israel ($20)

Israel is currently in a transition period with its wines. Smaller producers to larger ones are creating reds, whites and roses that show serious achievement. This wine, from Upper Galillee, is full of sweet, rich fruit, and oak spiced. It will shine with the first grilled steaks this season.

2019 David Finlayson Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa ($18)

This barbecue-friendly red is packed with sweet cherry fruit, black raspberries, and well-calibrated oak spices. It almost calls for a hamburger.

2020 Ground by Josh Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon California ( 15)

This Cabernet Sauvignon is pure, vibrant, and generous. The tart cherries and currants are seasoned with cinnamon and clove. The acidity lends life and structure to the wine, as well as the very well-integrated tannins. Josh Phelps has yet another winner.

2017 Los Vascos Grande Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Colchagua, Chile ($19)

This Cab sparkles with cherries, currants and taut minerality. It is a great example of how inexpensive Cab can age well. It is lively and balanced.

2018 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County ( $1.8)

Martini Sonoma Cab has a reputation for being well-crafted and delicious. The 2018 edition is no exception. This wine is beautifully structured and lingers with red and black currants, blood Oranges, melted liquorice, toasty cedar, woodsy spices, and melted licorice.

2019 Vasse Felix “Filius” Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Australia ($20)

This gem can be purchased for more than $20, but it is sometimes cheaper. Margaret River in Western Australia is home to some the finest Cabs in Australia. This Vasse Felix Cab is a blend of ripe berries, currants, dried Mediterranean herbs and a long finish. It’s worth looking for.

2019 Wente Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon “Southern Hills”, Livermore Valley ( California – $20 )

This Cab is bright and red-fruit-forward, but the cocoa powder and cinnamon will appeal to those who prefer a more rich style. The wine will also have black raspberry flavors once it has cooled.

2019 Zuccardi “Q” Cabernet Sauvignon, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina ($19)

This is a soft, silky texture that’s rich and creamy. It’s complemented by an energetic acidity that frames brambly fruits and hints of cedar. There’s also a savory edge from singed sage, well-structured minerals, and a smooth, velvety texture.

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