The Best for $12 or Less From December

Out of 1,390 wines tasted for our December 2020 issue, here are ten wines that offer a fantastic deal and would make a great addition to any holiday celebration.

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For $9

Dark as India ink, with cocoa and plum flavors and the tannins to take on ribs.

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A full-bodied white, with oak-enriched tropical fruit notes; for grilled chicken. (Winebow Imports, NY)

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For $10

All plum and berry flavors, with the tannins and acidity for pork sausages.

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For $11

Jammy with blueberry flavor and edged in espresso notes; for meaty tapas. (Scoperta Importing Co., Cleveland Heights, OH)

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Loads of crunchy red-plum flavor and evergreen spice.

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This is a downright steal of a cabernet, with its woodsy oak scent adorning simple red-cherry flavors. It’s fresh and light on its feet, with enough acidity to cut through a plate of chilled roast beef.

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Notes of cherries and sarsaparilla and firm tannins; built for lamb shoulder.

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This punches above its weight, with scents of plum and violets and flavors of fruit leather and dark berry compote; for steak.

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For $12

A blend of all five Bordeaux varieties but dominated by merlot, this starts off thick and chewy when first poured. With air, the merlot takes center stage, streamlined and red-fruited; for charcuterie.

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Scents of pine tips and creosote lead in this inky cab. Brooding and dark, it needs air and a few swirls in the glass to wake up. For barbecue.

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The wines on this page were chosen by our editors, from our tastings for the December 2020 edition. After our editors made their selections, we offered wineries the opportunity to promote their Best Buy award with a bottle image and brand links.

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This story appears in the print issue of December 2020.
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