A common belief among wine lovers suggests a good Cabernet Sauvignon should cost $50 or more. This misconception stops people from finding excellent wines at reasonable prices.
Several outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons actually cost less than $20 per bottle. These wines pack rich flavors, complex aromas, and smooth finishes that match their pricier counterparts. Talented winemakers in California’s sun-drenched vineyards and Washington’s Columbia Valley produce remarkable Cabernets at prices that might surprise you.
Nine of the best budget-friendly Cabernet Sauvignon wines are a great way to get quality and taste without breaking the bank. Each bottle proves that excellent wine doesn’t need a big price tag.
Image Source: J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
J. Lohr Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the prominent Paso Robles region and offers quality at a reasonable price point. The wine shows a dense, dark core and catches the eye with its brilliant garnet hue.
The blend consists of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon that goes together with one another with Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and other varieties. American oak barrels age the wine for 12 months, and 18.5% new oak adds depth to its profile.
Rich aromas of black cherry and currant fill the nose with layers of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla notes. Big, juicy red-fruit flavors take center stage on the palate, while softly textured tannins create a long, satisfying finish.
This versatile Cabernet tastes great with:
The wine’s balanced profile works especially when you have nutty and earthy flavors, and its medium body complements both bold and subtle dishes.
J. Lohr Seven Oaks delivers exceptional value at approximately $15.99, backed by consistent critical acclaim. The wine’s accolades include:
You can age this well-laid-out wine for seven years or longer. Wine enthusiasts looking for a reliable Cabernet under $20 will find J. Lohr Seven Oaks stands out for its quality-to-price ratio. The wine remains widely available in stores and restaurants.
Image Source: Yankee Spirits
Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon embodies Sonoma County’s rich winemaking tradition. This wine stands as a prime example of California’s winemaking excellence at a reasonable price point.
This well-laid-out wine blends 91% Cabernet Sauvignon with Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. The wine’s complex character unfolds through layers of blackberry and blackcurrant aromas that blend with gentle sage notes.
Your palate will experience rich black cherry and plum flavors that go together with one another alongside hints of toasted oak and dried currant. Fine-grained tannins create a polished mouthfeel, and bright acidity gives a remarkably long finish.
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with dishes of all types:
The balanced structure and smooth texture make this wine perfect for hearty dishes, yet it retains enough finesse to complement lighter fare.
This Sonoma Cabernet delivers exceptional value at approximately $16.99-$18.99. Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate gave it 90+ points and praised its “soft mid-palate” and “plentiful dusty tannins”. James Suckling’s review emphasizes the wine’s “velvety, integrated tannins” and “rich, smooth and spicy” profile.
Careful aging in French and American oak barrels contributes to the wine’s refined character and aging potential. This meticulous production process and consistent critical acclaim make Louis Martini Sonoma Cabernet a standout choice among affordable Cabernets.
Image Source: Reverse Wine Snob
Columbia Crest H3 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Washington State’s Horse Heaven Hills region, showcasing the unique qualities of this special terroir.
This bold Cabernet bursts with dark fruit flavors. Black cherries and blackberries dominate the palate with subtle touches of currants and vanilla. Rich layers of earth and mineral notes build complexity that leads to a sophisticated cocoa-tinged finish.
The 2020 vintage reflects the winery’s expertise with 14.5% ABV. It delivers a creamy, ripe profile and perfectly balanced soft tannins. Your nose will catch hints of tobacco leaves, mint, and mocha that add depth to this wine.
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with many dishes:
This Cabernet offers exceptional value at $10.99 and consistently receives praise from wine critics. James Suckling gave it 90 points and praised its “creamy and ripe” character with “soft tannins and nice balance”. The wine’s quality has made it Washington State’s top-selling Cabernet in several markets.
H3 stands for Horse Heaven Hills terroir. The unique microclimate and soil conditions here create the wine’s lush, fruit-forward character. Wine enthusiasts looking for exceptional value in their Cabernet selection will find Columbia Crest H3 a standout choice that delivers quality and affordability.
Image Source: McManis Family Vineyards
The McManis Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon reflects five generations of family winemaking expertise, making it a standout among California’s value wines.
This dark garnet wine shows off Lodi AVA terroir’s finest qualities with a rich aromatic profile of blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry. Juicy layers of ripe blackberry and mulberry compote blend with vanilla extract and chocolate shavings on the palate. The wine gains complexity from 4-6 months of aging in French and American oak that adds cedar hints and aged tobacco notes.
This wine’s medium body and balanced structure pairs well with many dishes:
You can enjoy its smooth texture and approachable character with or without food.
McManis Cabernet delivers exceptional value at approximately $10-12 and gets consistent praise from wine critics. The wine stands out through:
Wine experts rate it between 88-90 points, making it one of the most reliable affordable Cabernets available. The blend has 77% Cabernet Sauvignon with Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot that create a sophisticated wine worth more than its price tag.
Image Source: 14 Hands Winery
The wild horses that once roamed eastern Washington inspired 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine captures the untamed spirit of Columbia Valley’s distinctive terroir.
This easy-drinking Cabernet blend combines Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot to create a harmonious wine with 13.5% alcohol content. Rich aromas of dark cherry and black currant flow through the wine. Coffee notes and subtle hints of spice add complexity. Spiced cherry and plum flavors dance with cocoa undertones on the palate. Fine, velvety tannins provide an elegant structure.
Columbia Valley’s loamy sand and gravel soils just need resilient grapevines that contribute to the wine’s distinctive character. The wine’s plum-colored depth and impressive legs suggest a well-laid-out body.
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with:
The winery recommends these unique pairings:
14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon delivers exceptional value at approximately $10.49 per bottle. Wine enthusiasts consistently praise its smooth, drinkable nature and complex flavor profile. Many retailers offer case discounts, making this wine even more attractive to those seeking quality at an available price point.
Careful viticulture practices and skilled winemaking create a Cabernet that exceeds expectations for its price range. Knowing how to pair with a variety of cuisines and consistent quality makes this wine perfect for everyday enjoyment and special occasions.
Image Source: Bogle Family Vineyards
Green farming practices in California help Bogle Vineyards create their Cabernet Sauvignon. The region’s sunny days and cool nights provide perfect conditions that develop complex flavors.
This well-laid-out wine showcases dense fruit notes of dried cherry and plum compote that engage both nose and palate. American oak barrels age the wine for 14 months and add distinctive hints of clove, nutmeg, and burnt caramel. The deep ruby color reveals its complex nature, while black cherry, cassis, and rich earth notes burst from every glass.
Rich flavors of black plums and currants fill your mouth with a lush texture. Dusty tannins provide strong structure. The oak aging creates a balanced profile where baking spices and caramel notes coordinate with dense fruit characteristics.
You’ll find this versatile wine pairs beautifully with many dishes:
The wine’s integrated tannins and rich, round finish work magic with hearty dishes yet retain enough finesse for lighter options.
Bogle Cabernet Sauvignon costs just $10.89 and delivers exceptional quality. The 14.5% alcohol content contributes to its full-bodied character. Green farming practices and careful oak barrel aging showcase Bogle’s steadfast dedication to quality winemaking.
Strong structure and balance ensure this wine will age gracefully. Quality, sustainability, and aging potential make Bogle Cabernet one of the best value cabernets under $15 available today.
Image Source: Josh Cellars
Joseph Carr started Josh Cellars as a tribute to his father Josh. This California wine ranks among America’s most respected affordable Cabernets. The brand’s excellence earned them Wine Enthusiast’s American Winery of the Year award in 2021.
This round and juicy California Cabernet greets you with rich dark fruit aromas and subtle notes of cinnamon and clove. Black cherry and juicy blackberry flavors dance on your palate with delicate vanilla touches and toasted oak notes. The wine leaves you with soft, round tannins that linger.
Careful aging shapes the wine’s perfectly balanced profile. Blackberry and toasted hazelnut notes blend with hints of vanilla and toasted oak. At 13.5% ABV, this Cabernet shows remarkable depth yet stays approachable.
Josh Cellars Cabernet pairs beautifully with many dishes:
You’ll find great value in Josh Cellars Cabernet at $13.49. The wine stands out among the best cabernets under $20. You can choose from half bottles at $12.99 or full cases at $215.88. Wine club members get better deals with standard bottles at $14.39.
The wine’s quality matches bottles twice its price, backed by consistent critical acclaim. Wayne Donaldson, who joined as Chief Winemaker in 2009, has kept high standards that make Josh Cellars a standard for affordable premium wines. Expert winemaking, balanced flavors, and reasonable prices make this Cabernet perfect for wine lovers who want quality without spending too much.
Image Source: Miller & Bean Coffee Company
Carnivor Cabernet Sauvignon stands out among California’s bold red wines with its intense character and sophisticated profile. This wine ranks high in the best value cabernet sauvignon category.
The wine shows an almost ink-like opacity in the glass that hints at its strength. The rich aromatic profile layers blackberry, dark cherry, and perfectly toasted oak notes. Wine enthusiasts will find a sophisticated blend of flavors that includes roasted coffee, vanilla, and chocolate. These elements create a refined yet bold experience.
This California Cabernet packs 13.8% ABV and delivers a full-bodied experience. Its soft tannins create a smooth, refined mouthfeel. The wine’s luscious weight balances bold flavor with sophisticated character. Serious wine enthusiasts appreciate its dry profile.
This bold wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes:
The wine shows remarkable versatility beyond traditional pairings. Dark chocolate and strawberries make excellent dessert companions.
Carnivor Cabernet costs between $9.99-$12.99 and delivers exceptional value in the affordable cabernet category. A 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating proves it competes well with pricier alternatives.
Careful oak aging enhances the wine’s sophisticated profile – a characteristic usually found in more expensive wines. Wine enthusiasts looking for the best cabernet sauvignon under $15 will appreciate its bold intensity and refined character. This makes it perfect for both casual sipping and special occasions.
Image Source: The Corkery
Red Diamond has crafted distinctive varietals since 2003. Their unique winemaking approach sources grapes from premier growing regions worldwide. This strategy helps them create quality wines at available price points.
This sophisticated Cabernet features a well-crafted blend composition:
| Varietal | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon | 77% |
| Petit Verdot | 8% |
| Other Red Varieties | 8% |
| Petite Sirah | 4% |
| Merlot | 3% |
The wine captivates with intense aromas of black fruits that blend perfectly with subtle oak notes. Creamy cherry and black coffee flavors dance on the palate before leading to a soft, supple finish. This Cabernet delivers a medium to full-bodied experience at 13.5% ABV. Coffee, cherry, and blackberry notes balance perfectly throughout.
This versatile wine excels with various food combinations:
Tomato-based dishes’ sharp flavors complement the wine’s acidity beautifully. Chinese cuisine’s high fat levels and slightly sweet hoisin flavors bring out the wine’s fruit characteristics.
Red Diamond Cabernet offers remarkable value at $7.49-$8.99 per bottle. Wine critics have awarded it 89 points. They praise its silky smooth texture, toasted oak finish, and balanced acidity.
The brand’s quality comes from their steadfast dedication to grape sourcing. They select regions renowned for climates that suit each varietal best. This creates a fruit-forward profile that has earned them recognition for stylish yet casual wines. Careful blending and aging produce a Cabernet that exceeds expectations for its price point. Wine enthusiasts seeking quality without premium pricing will find this an excellent choice.
| Wine Name | Price Range | ABV | Key Flavor Notes | Notable Food Pairings | Critical Rating/Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| J. Lohr Seven Oaks | $15.99 | Not mentioned | Black cherry, currant, toasted pastry, vanilla | Grilled/roasted red meats, aged cheeses, pulled-pork | 91 pts James Suckling, 90 pts Wine Enthusiast |
| Louis M. Martini Sonoma | $16.99-$18.99 | Not mentioned | Blackberry, blackcurrant, sage, black cherry | Rare steak, leg of lamb, mushroom risotto | 90+ pts Robert Parker |
| Columbia Crest H3 | $10.99 | 14.5% | Black cherries, blackberries, cocoa, vanilla | Red meats, pasta dishes, hard cheese | 90 pts James Suckling |
| McManis Family | $10-12 | 13.5% | Blackberry, blueberry, vanilla, chocolate | Chinese beef, grilled meats, charcuterie | 88-90 pts |
| 14 Hands | $10.49 | 13.5% | Dark cherry, black currant, coffee, spice | Caprese bruschetta, prime rib, pasta dishes | Not mentioned |
| Bogle | $10.89 | 14.5% | Dried cherry, plum, clove, nutmeg | Rib-eye steak, roasted eggplant, dark chocolate | Not mentioned |
| Josh Cellars | $13.49 | 13.5% | Black cherry, blackberry, vanilla, oak | Beef, pork, lamb, pasta dishes | American Winery of the Year 2021 |
| Carnivor | $9.99-$12.99 | 13.8% | Blackberry, dark cherry, coffee, vanilla | Mushroom burgers, ribeye steaks, dark chocolate | 4.5/5 average rating |
| Red Diamond | $7.49-$8.99 | 13.5% | Black fruits, coffee, cherry | Tomato-based dishes, Peking duck, braised pork | 89 pts |
Wine lovers can find quality Cabernet Sauvignon at every price point. Nine excellent wines, priced between $7.49 and $18.99, show that great wine doesn’t need a hefty price tag. Each bottle brings something unique to the table – J. Lohr delights with rich black cherry notes while Columbia Crest H3 impresses with bold mineral undertones.
A complete comparison shows these wines deliver consistent quality regardless of price, and several bottles earned 89-91 points from top wine critics. Josh Cellars and Louis M. Martini stand out by using careful production methods and smart grape sourcing. They create sophisticated wines that taste like much pricier bottles.
These wines pair beautifully with food. Their balanced tannins and fruit-forward profiles make them perfect matches for red meats, pasta dishes, and aged cheeses. You can confidently serve them at casual dinners or special occasions.
Modern winemaking techniques and careful grape cultivation have made these affordable Cabernets possible. They deliver premium taste without the premium price tag. Wine enthusiasts looking for quality Cabernet Sauvignon will find these bottles offer amazing value while keeping the sophisticated profiles that make this varietal so popular.
Q1. What are some good Cabernet Sauvignon options under $20?
Some excellent affordable Cabernet Sauvignon options include J. Lohr Seven Oaks, Columbia Crest H3, Bogle Vineyards, Josh Cellars, and Carnivor. These wines offer quality and value, with prices ranging from about $10 to $20.
Q2. How do affordable Cabernets compare to more expensive options?
Many affordable Cabernets offer excellent quality for their price point. While they may not have the complexity of high-end wines, options like Louis M. Martini Sonoma and Josh Cellars deliver rich flavors and balanced profiles that can rival more expensive bottles.
Q3. What food pairs well with affordable Cabernet Sauvignon?
Affordable Cabernets pair well with a variety of foods. Grilled or roasted red meats, pasta dishes with red sauces, hard cheeses, and even dark chocolate desserts complement these wines nicely. The balanced tannins and fruit-forward profiles make them versatile for many cuisines.
Q4. Are there any good international Cabernet options in the affordable range?
Yes, there are excellent international Cabernet options at affordable prices. Wines from regions like Chile, Argentina, and Australia often offer great value. For example, some Chilean Cabernets deliver sophisticated profiles typically associated with pricier bottles.
Q5. How long can I age an affordable Cabernet Sauvignon?
While many affordable Cabernets are designed for immediate consumption, some can age well for a few years. Wines like J. Lohr Seven Oaks have aging potential of up to seven years. However, most will be at their best within 2-5 years of release.
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