Red and affordable

Wine lovers know it’s easy to find a good red if you’re willing to drop $20 or more per bottle. The ongoing challenge is smoking out something memorable in the $10-$12 range. Here are two that fit the bill. At $12, the 2009 “CMS” Red from Hedges Family Estate in Washington State’s Columbia Valley is a medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot-Syrah blend (hence the name) that features good berry fruit, nice tannins and a supple finish. The 2007 and 2008 vintages were solid, but this one is even better. Drink now with flank steak, London broil with blue cheese sauce or Swiss and shitake burgers.

Another find is Renwood’s $11 2008 Barbera. The Italian Piedmont varietal also grows in California’s Sierra Foothills, producing lively, cherry-berry notes that perform well with uncomplicated faves like spaghetti and meatballs. Nothing too complex here, but it does feature enough acidity to see a hearty dish through. Try also with lamb kabobs.