Living Rich – 3 Great Wines For Less Than $20
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As part of my ongoing effort to help you live as well as (or better than) Bill Gates, here are three truly great wines you can buy for less than $20.

Barossa Shiraz 1997 ($11.99). Australia is known for its Shiraz, Barossa is Australia’s best Shiraz district, and Peter Lehman is considered one of the most reliable producers in Barossa. This full, round, velvety red is great with meat dishes or cheddar cheese. It will continue to improve in the bottle and can be cellared with confidence for 5 plus years.

Stella Merlot 1998 Umbria ($5.99). When it comes to Merlot, you won’t get a better value than this. Here is a wine you can really stock up on and enjoy every night. Riccardo Cotarella is considered a Merlot master by those who know. Here he has produced a light, fruity red great for parities.

Chateau Charmail Haut Medoc 1997 ($16.99). Recommended for the third year in a row by California’s Wine Club Newsletter, this is a terrific Cru Bourgeois, proudly produced by Olivier Seze who has dedicated himself to producing fine wines from his 56-acre property in northern Medoc. According to the experts, Chateau Charmail is one of the finest values you can find in the Medoc. A blend of 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, this wine is very dark in color, has a rich bouquet and a full-bodied taste. Will age well for 3 to 5 years.