
Among our favorite value reds is one that defies the rule of thumb often repeated in this column: that California is not a great source of good, inexpensive wine. We’ve frequently chided California for its low-priced Cabernet Sauvignon – better values can be found south of the border – and inexpensive chardonnay – typically and overoaked and unexciting. But we’ve always been fans of the state’s kitchen-sink red blends.
Sacred Stone Master's Blend, St. Francis RED Sonoma County, Ledgewood Creek "Owl House Red" California and Snap Dragon California Red are just a few of the “field blends” that defy California’s well-earned reputation for making lots of good, expensive wine, but generally turning out lackluster, generic-tasting wines at affordable price points.