Italian Red Wine : Two Under 10 Bucks

Finding good Italian red wine on a budget is no easy feat.  But when I do find them, I like to share them.  Isn’t that the point of wine? To taste and share your favorites.  Even if I can’t share a glass personally, I can share it virtually right?

First up was wine from Castello Banfi.  Banfi is a leader among Tuscan wines- a very well known name both in Italy and here in the States.  Many Banfi wines are of excellent quality and honestly out of my price range. We were excited to learn that this was available at our local wine store for a mere $7.99.

Col di Sasso, which translates to “Stony Hill,” is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese grapes cultivated on the most rocky and impervious slopes of the Banfi estate in Montalcino, Tuscany. 

Typically harvested in early October, each grape variety is vinified separately. The Sangiovese imparts body, while stainless steel aged Cabernet Sauvignon adds fruit and structure.

Col di Sasso is a youthful red to be enjoyed with grilled or roasted meats, poultry, or as an ideal accompaniment to pasta with meat sauce and mildly piquant cheeses.

Our second bottle, a Rocca Bella Negroamaro 2008 went down as smooth as the first even though it was a bit stronger red.  It is made from grapes grown in Puglia, Italy – the heel of the boot.