Cabernet Sauvignon – The Favorite Choice for Red Wine Lovers
For most red wine lovers, Cabernet Sauvignon is their wine of choice. This full-bodied red wine variety is known for its lush flavor and hearty tannins. When searching for a bottle of red that is full of fruity flavors and substantial alcohol content, look no further than Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine can be enjoyed from the moment it is poured into the glass. Take time to admire the luscious ruby red hues, the aromatic bouquet, and the spicy flavors on the palate. The finish is long and satisfying, and you will keep going back for more.
Find Your Favorite
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grow well and can be found growing abundantly in many regions around the globe. Different wine regions will produce slightly different versions of Cabernet Sauvignon, so don’t be afraid to sample a few to find your favorite.
Best Cabernet Sauvignon Wines Under $20
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(4.3 / 5) Best Overall
- Name — Juggernaut Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Juggernaut
- Country/Region — United States, California
- Type — Californian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Licorice, Cedar, Chocolate, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Black Currant, Blackberry, Plum, Black Cherry, Vanilla
- Alcohol Content — 14.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Meaty Stews, Seared Lamb Chops, Strong Cheeses, Dark Chocolate
Motto: Overcoming Challenges Builds Character
The motto of the American Juggernaut winery says it all. The grapes in these vineyards are grown under the most difficult conditions which result in outstanding, bold wines. They are blessed with medium tannins and an abundance of flavors. Included in the range of flavors are rich black fruits, tobacco, leather, vanilla, and a smooth oakiness.
Lord of the Vines
This top-rated cabernet sauvignon under $20 has earned its reputation by being of the same high standard as the original grapes are grown in the Bordeaux region of France. In California, Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most sought-after red wine varieties and is also found in the most expensive price range.
Tasting Notes
The Juggernaut Cabernet Sauvignon has a delightfully deep burgundy color in the glass that entices you to breathe in the heavy, fruity aromas that contain hints of graphite. The harsh rocky terroir that hosts the vines makes a deep impression on the aromas and flavors. If you allow breathing time, the flavors of the wine will intensify while the tannins remain light, and the finish peppery and satisfying. A fruity, velvety mouthfeel contrasts with the harsh Californian sunshine, and the land of production is your reward for taking a sip.
Best Value
- Name — Gnarly Head 1924 Double Black Bourbon Barrel Aged Limited Edition Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Gnarly Head
- Country/Region — United States, California, Central Valley, Lodi
- Type — Californian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Celery, Vanilla, Chocolate, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Blackberry, Chocolate, Toffee, Vanilla, Oak
- Alcohol Content — 15%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Grilled Lamb Skewers, Juicy Steaks, Strong Cheeses, Spaghetti Bolognese
Don’t Judge a Wine by Its Strange Name!
For red wine lovers who are seeking a good value bottle of their favorite tipple, Gnarly Head may not be the first bottle you reach for on the shelf. But don’t be put off by the unusual name on the label.
Winemaking
Using perfectly ripe grapes that are harvested in the cool evenings, Gnarly Head Cabernet Sauvignon is fermented slowly, and then some of the wine is aged in a blend of American and French oak. The remaining wine is aged in stainless steel which highlights the fruit flavors. The wine is then blended together to create a suave, sophisticated wine with bold tannins, hearty black fruit flavors with hints of earthy spiciness, and a full-bodied lengthy finish.
Where Is Gnarly Head Produced?
The grape-growing region of Lodi is famous in California for producing superb Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Only the best grapes from select vineyards are chosen and blended to provide the essential elements for Gnarly Head Cabernet Sauvignon. The result is a jammy, herby, spicy, great cabernet sauvignon under $20. Crafted using grapes from select vineyards throughout Northern California, specifically from the Lodi region. Lodi’s climate is ideal for growing concentrated, full-flavored grapes.
Best Under $15
- Name — Bread & Butter Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Bread & Butter
- Country/Region — United States, California
- Type — Californian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Cherry, Chocolate, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Plum, Black Cherry, Strawberry, Cocoa, Oak
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Grilled Ribeye Steak, Mushroom Pizza, Blue Cheeseburgers, Venison, Poultry
Charming and Alluring
This perfectly layered Cabernet Sauvignon presents you with all the rich flavors you would expect – and more! There are hints of mocha amongst the fresh red berries and blackcurrant flavors, and notes of black pepper that are essential, despite being subtle. All the flavors are perfectly blended and gentle tannins take you, reluctantly, to the smooth finish.
A Wine for Any Occasion or for Enjoying Solo
I recommend trying this wine on a long, cold evening in front of the fire just to check out whether this review stands the test of the tongue. After that, you will be able to delight your family and friends with your delectable find, and you will be able to serve the Bread and Butter Cabernet Sauvignon with confidence while pairing it with hearty beef stews, meat feast barbeques, and homely cheeseburgers.
The Toast of California
Bread and Butter Cabernet Sauvignon is yet another delicious red wine that hails from California. The harsh climate and terroir force the grapes to grow with intensified flavor, and the winemaking traditions there have a reputation for producing some of the best red wines in the world. Not only is the Bread and Butter red wine a good cabernet sauvignon under $20, it is also a mellow, yet forceful example of this grape variety.
Best From Napa Valley
- Name — Aviary Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Aviary
- Country/Region — United States, California, North Coast, Napa County, Napa Valley
- Type — Californian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Strawberry, Raspberry, Vanilla, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Blackberry, Cherry, Vanilla, Chocolate
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — New York Strip, Hearty Meat Dishes, Pork Chops, Beef Casserole
Perfection From the Best Blends
Aviary Vineyards pride themselves on having the ability to “Create the perfect glass of wine, using blends from the best vineyards.” Hailing from Napa Valley, the cradle of American winemaking expertise, Aviary Vineyards bring classic, impressive Cabernet Sauvignon to the table of “Every Man”.
Life Is Too Short to Drink Mediocre Wine
With the ambition and expertise of which they can be proud, Aviary California produces a top cabernet sauvignon under $20 that will keep you coming back for more. This red wine is as smooth as velvet on the palate with a subtle tannin structure and matured in carefully selected oak barrels. From the glass, you can inhale the dark fruit aromas with hints of earthiness. The palate soon becomes full of the rich flavors of cassis, jammy strawberries, and light hints of eucalyptus.
A Wine to Enjoy Every Day
You don’t need to wait for a special occasion to enjoy Aviary Cabernet Sauvignon. It is ideal for sipping in good company, and the price is reasonable enough for you to keep a few bottles stored in a cool, dark place. Pair it with hearty stews, deep rich flavors like venison, or as an accompaniment to a cheeseboard containing mature, flavorsome cheeses.
Best From Washington
- Name — Chateau Ste. Michelle Indian Wells Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Chateau Ste. Michelle
- Country/Region — United States, Washington, Columbia Valley
- Type — Washington State Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackcurrant, Blackberry, Juniper, Plum, Caramel
- Grapes — 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Syrah, 1% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc
- Taste — Blueberry, Cherry, Chocolate, Vanilla, Oak
- Alcohol Content — 13.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Red Meats, Game, Mushrooms, Spicy Cheeses, Cold Cuts, Japanese And Korean Cuisine
Washington Wine in the New World Style
Indian Wells Vineyard in Washington State has earned the reputation for being the producer of one of the best cabernets under $20. By using tried and tested methods of viticulture and wine production, Indian Wells have perfected the art of creating succulent, rich, full-bodied red wine in the New World style.
History
The Chateau Ste. Michelle winemakers are skilled craftsmen who have gained a reputation for creating some of the top-quality wines found globally. The Indian Wells Vineyard is home to the superior quality Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that are used in this blend. This Cabernet Sauvignon blend exhibits all the luscious texture and concentrated black fruit flavors that you would expect from a wine of this caliber.
Best From Sonoma
- Name — Goldschmidt Vineyards Katherine Goldschmidt Stonemason Hill Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Goldschmidt
- Country/Region — United States, California, North Coast, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley
- Type — Californian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Plum, Licorice, Melon, Pepper, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Plum, Cherry, Strawberry, Vanilla, Nuts
- Alcohol Content — 14.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Beef Wellington, Ribeye, Porterhouse Steak, Filet Mignon
Juiciness
This critically acclaimed wine has an alluring purple edge pulling you into its deep red center. Your nose will be enchanted by the ripe, fruity scents of raspberries, cherries, and purple plums. This wine has the essence of the Cabernet grape in its aroma and in its flavor. The same fruits that are highlighted in the nose, make their flavors felt in the mouth with the characteristic Cabernet complexity. The subtle tannins take you to a long satisfying finish. Pure elegance in a glass. This is undoubtedly the best Sonoma cabernet sauvignon under $20!
Traditional Family Winemaking
Katherine Goldschmidt and her father, Nick have continued the family tradition of winemaking. The perfect loamy soil of the Alexander Valley provides the necessary terroir, and their superb winemaking techniques allow them to present an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon that rocks with personality. It is a wine to enjoy today, and if you can hold some back, it will still be good when uncorked in up to ten years’ time!
Best From France
- Name — Château Beauregard Ducasse Graves
- Winery — Château Beauregard
- Country/Region — France, Bordeaux, Graves
- Type — Bordeaux Graves Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Plum, Black Currante, Blackberry, Tobacco, Hints Of Spice
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Black Fruits, Cherry, Chocolate, Oak, Chedar
- Alcohol Content — 12.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Roasted Lamb, Roasted Duck, Meatloaf, Grilled Ribs
Albert Duran
Building on the wine-making experience of Albert Duran, who started the winery in 1850, Jacques Perromat brought his expertise to the family tradition. He knew that the perfect terroir of the Graves appellation needed only a tweak to the technology to continue producing outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
The Terroir
Known for its complex blend of gravel, sand, clay, and limestone, the Graves region on the left bank of the Bordeaux region of France provides the unique terroir for producing top-quality Cabernet grapes. The wine produced is highly regarded for its strength of structure and flawless flavors. You will not be disappointed by the richness of the fruity aromas and flavors. The hefty tannins ensure a steadfast core. You can buy this cabernet with confidence because it is backed by the traditional French winemaking skill and renowned growing conditions.
Best From Argentina
- Name — Viña Cobos Felino Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Viña Cobos
- Country/Region — Argentina, Mendoza
- Type — Argentinian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Cherry, Prune, Coffee, Cinnamon, Vanilla
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Blackberry, Cherry, Blackcurrant, Mocha, Oak
- Alcohol Content — 14.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Casseroles And Grilled Meat Such As Burgers, Lamb, Chicken, Beef, Barbecue, Smoked Or Roasted
Welcome to the Rich Flavor of Argentinian Wines
Argentinian wines have risen in popularity around the world and this Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. Made by the famous winemaker, Paul Hobbs at the Viña Cobos winery, this best Argentinian Cabernet Sauvignon for under $20 is destined to impress.
Magical Mendoza
It is the perfect expression of the Mendoza terroir and showcases the exemplary winemaking techniques of this winery. This red wine has the characteristic spicy berry flavors and deep purple color, but the additional herbal hints, such as eucalyptus, are unusual and delightful. The finish is refined and pleasing leaving the mouth with a buttery oak smoothness.
Best From Australia
- Name — Gentleman’s Collection Cabernet Sauvignon (Batch No. 1 & 3)
- Winery — Dr Henry Lindeman
- Country/Region — Australia, South Eastern Australia
- Type — Australian Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Cassis, Chocolate, Vanilla, Oak
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon With A Dash Of Fortified Wine
- Taste — Blackberry, Plum, Vanilla, Cherry, Tobacco, Hints Of Smoke
- Alcohol Content — 14.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Grilled Hamburger, Roasted Lamb, Asian Food, Dark Chocolate
Not Only for Gentlemen!
Australia is rightly proud of its winemaking tradition and it has managed to rival many of the traditional wine-producing countries with its delicious offerings. The AU Gentleman’s Collection is yet another example of the best Australian Cabernet Sauvignon under $20.
Like a truly dashing gentleman, this Cabernet Sauvignon is warm, rich with a masculine structure. You will catch hints of black fruits and sweet cassis, giving it the flavor of a fortified wine, plus a smokiness that will remind you of the smell of pipe tobacco on a tweed jacket. You will not be able to resist snuggling up with a glass of this delicious red wine.
Full Flavor at a Bargain Price
The fruity, leather-flavored red wine will not break the bank. In fact, you will not believe that you are drinking a Cabernet Sauvignon of this quality at such a reasonable price. Pair it with steaks on the barbeque or a delicious roast beef meal and you will be in paradise.
Best From Chile
- Name — Casillero del Diablo Reserva Privada Cabernet Sauvignon
- Winery — Casillero del Diablo
- Country/Region — Chile, Central Valley, Maipo Valley
- Type — Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aroma — Blackberry, Blueberry, Coffee, Toast
- Grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon
- Taste — Plum, Blackberry, Blackcurrant, Oak, Hints Of Spice
- Alcohol Content — 14.5%
- Sugar — Dry
- Pairing — Beef Stew, Roasted Duck, Pork Chops, Aged Cheeses
Casillero del Diablo Reserva is full of the rich dark flavors you have come to expect from this winery. There are also hints of cigar smoke, as well as the earthy notes of stone and oak. This is a fine example of a New World Cabernet Sauvignon and it will not fail to please even the most discerning palate. Many consider it the best cabernet under $20 to be found. It is medium-bodied and the subtle tannins lead you to a finish that has hints of vanilla, cherry, and ripe plums right to the end.
Conclusion
If your mouth is not watering to sample some of this selection of the best Cabernet Sauvignon for under $20 then you are going to miss out on a treat! And, your wallet will thank you for being so economical in your choices. A review is designed to inform and entice you, but nothing can replace the sound of the cork being pulled, the light as it hits the deep purple wine in your glass, and that first sniff of all those deep, dark fruity aromas. Do yourself a “flavor” and get tasting!
