Ski Day Wines for Under $20

In response to my last posting, today I am answering the question, “What is your favorite wine to have with dinner after a long day on the slopes for under $20?” Now, that is a question I can handle. With the price of a lift ticket constantly climbing, I figure wines under $20 are a practical and deserved post-ski day indulgence.

I think I speak for most skier/snowboarders out there when I say that after a day on the mountain and out in the cold, you are ready for a seriously hearty winter meal. To me, this means red meat…which generally translates to red wine, though this doesn’t have to be the case. Below are three of my top value big reds that are perfectly suited for all the meaty, protein-loaded treats that you crave after a day on the mountain.

Punto Final Malbec Reserva 2006

A glass or two of this Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina is sure to help sooth your achy legs and at just under $20, it’s a lot cheaper than a massage. While the nose is full of cedar and earth, on the palate this wine boasts flavors of blackberry, licorice and lavender. Ribs, pulled pork or anything with BBQ sauce helps extract the hints of hoisin buried in this wine and makes a great pair. In addition, the structure and earthiness of this wine is a perfect fit for more gamey “ski-lodge worthy” meats like lamb, elk, and venison. Available at Wine.com.

Lapostolle’s Casa Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

For under $15, this Chilean Cab will warm your frostbitten feet and make your mouth water. With ripe notes of berry and cassis, this wine belongs with a juicy cheeseburger, tender steak or a beautifully glazed pork chop. It would also complement an overflowing bowl of chili (topped with cheese and sour cream of course) because it is medium-bodied and won’t overpower the dish. In addition, the herbal and earthy notes of the finish will enhance the pepper, onion, bay leaf and any other spices you might toss in the chili pot. Personally, I also have no problem sipping this over apps or on its own while dinner’s in the oven. Available at Wine.com.

McManis Petite Sirah 2008

With luscious berry flavors and big cigar spices up front and a finish of chocolate and coffee, this Cali wine is the ultimate “comfort” red. Therefore it is best served with your favorite winter comfort dishes, so long as they are chocked full of high protein meats and bold flavors. For me, this includes beef stew, braised short ribs, beef brisket…you get the idea. I also enjoy this as a savory complement to a chocolate dessert or crème brulée. Available through Winezap.com.