The more you’re able to spend on wine, the better quality you’re likely to get. However, you don’t have to pay $100 to get a great bottle of wine. If you have $30 to spend, you can get a great bottle of wine — and maybe even have a few bucks to spare.
Top Five Recommended Wines for Under $30
There’s nothing like a highly rated wine under $30. Here are some of the best wines that won’t break the bank.
1. Pinot Noir
Pinot noir pairs well with a variety of foods for any meal and is considered the world’s most beloved light-bodied red wine. While more tannic versions go well with duck, stews and casseroles, fruity varieties make an excellent match for pasta dishes, roasted chicken, salmon and other fatty fish.
Pinot noir is known for being a lighter-bodied wine overall, but you may also find a few more complex, bold and medium-bodied versions. You’ll love this affordable wine for its flower, red fruit and spice aromas that are highlighted by a smooth finish.
2. Merlot
Generally, merlot is an excellent match for lightly spiced dark meats and light meats such as chicken. Juicy merlot wines pair well with roasted vegetables. With not too much acidity and medium tannin, you’ll find merlot is one of the most versatile, low-cost wines for your kitchen.
Merlots are best served at 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Since most reds are not sold chilled, you’ll need to refrigerate yours at home. The bottle will be slightly cool to the touch when it reaches the right temperature.
3. Dry Riesling
Dry riesling is an ideal wine for meals featuring chicken, seafood and vegetarian dishes with little to no sauce. It also makes a fantastic pairing alongside an array of fried or spicy foods to balance complex food flavors with its layered, rich fruit and mineral profile. You’ll find several riesling varieties perfect for your favorite fish and pasta dishes for under $30 at Marketview Liquor.
4. Rosé
The versatility of rosé gives you all sorts of options regarding food pairings. Because it’s in the middle of the flavor profile, it pairs with just about everything, including:
- Soft cheeses
- Charcuterie
- Lamb served pink
- Veggie skewers on the barbecue
- Duck
- Salmon
- Chicken or niçoise salad
- Spinach, feta, mint and quinoa tartelettes
5. Pinot Grigio
Pinot grigio is a popular white wine you can find for under $30. This refreshing wine pairs well with popular Italian staples such as risotto and pasta as well as summery, light dishes.
Top food pairings for pinot grigio include:
- Antipasto, especially vegetable or seafood-based ones
- Light vegetable-based or seafood risottos
- Sushi
- Light seafood salads
- Fried vegetables or fish
- Light pasta sauces
Shop the Best Red and White Wines Under $30
If you’re shopping for wine with a specific budget in mind, it can be challenging to find the right wine at the right price. A grocery store or state store has limited shelf space, so they may also have a limited selection. At Marketview Liquor, you’ll find a vast selection of different wines and other spirits at any price point. Browse our inventory of wines priced from under $10 to $30 to find the best wines under $30.