Gerald O'Kennard

The results of the Beverage Testing Institute's (BTI) annual tasting of hundreds of wines priced under $20 are out and we're happy to report that there are plenty of excellent wine deals out there amid the clutter of inexpensive brands on the shelf. BTI divided the competition into four key price categories—$8 and under, $10 and under, $15 and under and $20 and under—and looked at a variety of size formats including the popular 3L casks. We also culled the varietal and regional categories to find the "Best Values" and "Exceptional Values" for a given region's wines.

A healthy mix of small, mid and even mega-sized U.S. and international producers' wines rose to the top of the heap. A few of the wines are U.S. "regional wonders" that may be tough to find outside of the producers' markets, but for the most part these are readily available wines that can be found in most major markets. And, although the vast majority of wines made today are crafted for immediate consumption and most consumers age their wines for the approximate time it takes to drive from the store until dinner or party time, interestingly enough, many of the wines are so well-structured that they will improve with a little time in the "cellar"(even if you don't have one).That's a remarkable discovery, especially considering the price points in question.

Below are lists of the top red, white, sparkling and dessert wines in each of the price categories and the rest of the recommended wines from this year's World Value Wine Challenge. We invite you to explore these flavorful, well-balanced and full-bodied wines that will also leave your budget and wallet well-balanced and fullbodied as you head further into the New Year.

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