With thrift in mind, this week we turn to three budget-friendly bottles. Plus, at least there’s still no GST on wine until Feb. 15!
Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page.
It was inevitable. It always is.
Recommended Videos
After all the expectation and buildup to the holiday season, followed by the loosening of belts (both figurative and literal) as cheer was shared, mid-January inevitably rolls around. Which means the arrival of post-holiday bills — and the re-tightening of said belts.
Thus, with thrift in mind, this week we turn to three more budget-friendly bottles. Plus, there’s still no GST on wine until Feb. 15!
Dunavar 2023 Pinot Grigio, Hungary ($11.99, #438119)
True story, some 20 years ago, a wise lady in the bottle shop tipped me off to the value prowess of this Hungarian Pinot Grigio. Back then it was labelled a Pinot Gris and cost well under a tenner (think I first started buying it at $7.99!). But fast forward to 2025 and I’m happy to report that it still brings good fruit and lip-smacking satisfaction. Aromas of apple skin, pear and floral tones kickoff a juicy, invigorating style. Sure it’s straightforward, but it’s honest and fresh, with a balanced finish to conclude. It makes an easy food partner, try pairing with Dahl or fish sticks.
Bottom line: B. A true everyday white.
Mommessin N/V Cuvée Saint Pierre, European Union ($10.99, #513)
Admittedly, I was somewhat surprised to read the back label of the most recent Cuvée Saint Pierre. It’s long been a regional blend, but it’s no longer a “Vin de France.” Now labelled a “Product of European Union Wine,” happily the bottled premise remains. This is a simple, easygoing and easy-drinking lighter red with a smooth finish. This wine is not meant to be the star on the table, it’s meant to be served with all manner of weekday meals: From chili to tacos, takeout or scratch made. This is the locally available two-Euro bottle your friends returning from France, Italy, Portugal or Spain romanticize about!
Bottom line: C+. Earnest, if simple.
Orso Bruno 2022 Old Vine Zinfandel, Italy ($13.99 on sale until Jan. 25, #192813)
Who doesn’t like a January deal when dealing with the credit-card bills? Currently five bucks off it’s regular price, Orso Bruno (“Brown Bear” in Italian) provides a Puglia curveball by pitching the wine as Zinfandel — rather than the typical Primitivo name common to the south of Italy. Sure, they’re the same grape, but the label choice highlights the marketing approach in offering a crowd pleasing wine. Made from old vine grapes, this plummy red brings a burst of ripe dark fruit before savoury notes and evident spiciness build. Bring on the burgers or even just a fire and a good book.
Bottom line: B-. Winter warmer.