7 ways to stretch a wine budget

In the market for a nice bottle of wine that won’t bust your budget? Here are seven key words to look for on the label (courtesy of Business Insider) that will satisfy both inner cheapskate and inner oenologist.

Classico (Chianti)

Skip labels that only list Chianti by itself. What you want to see is “Chianti Classico.” This ensure you’re getting a wine from the key growing areas.

Gran Reserva (Rioja)

Again, avoid Reserva by itself. Opt instead for labels that read “Gran Reserva.” You’ll be rewarded with this popular Spanish wine’s signature strong oak flavor; it’s aged in oak for more than two years and then three more years in the bottle.

Cru Bourgeois (Bordeaux)

Find these words on the label and you know you’ll be getting classic Bordeaux flavor at a fraction of the price, usually around $25.

Grand Vin (Bordeaux)

This term indicates you’re getting the first and best berries of the vintage.

Trocken (Riesling)

Turned off by Riesling because it’s too sweet? The word “Trocken” on the label means it’s on the drier side.

Cru (Beaujolais)

Forget everything you know about Beaujolais as being fruity and frivolous in your palette. The word “Cru” on the label means you’ve found a Beaujolais that is serious and stout.

Premier Cru (Burgundy)

Now we’re getting a bit pricier. If you find a “Premier Cru” (meaning “first vineyard”) for less than $25, it will stand up nicely to the loftiest Burgundy. Clark Howard helps you save more, spend less, and avoid ripoffs. Visit ClarkHoward.com for more info, or get his bestselling books signed with free shipping at GetClarkSmart.com.