I recently received my license to be able to sell wine. I am now able to once again sample a large variety of vintages. My favorite rep brought me several bottles to taste & I found a few really interesting & affordable wines.

For a great label try Mad Housewife. The Merlot is quite nice with a hint of spice, very drinkable. Bring  a bottle to your next “Girls Night In”,  retails for around $9.99
http://www.madhousewifecellars.com/

Another wine with a cool label that is quite drinkable is The Big Red Monster. Created by winemakers Jeff Booth & Bob Pepi, “Big Red” is a blend of California grapes that is meant to be a “food wine”. The label is designed to look like a 50’s-style monster movie poster.

Rob from 365 Corks gave this a 4 cork rating! also a $9.99 retail
http://www.365corks.com/2007/11/big-red-monster.html

The third wine I tried & love is Gato Negro Shiraz. If you are a fan of Chilean wines, Shiraz, or just on a budget, you need to find a bottle of this wine. Gato Negro wine is from Chile and perhaps the best bargain - ever. At $3.99 current state minimum retail (in Ohio), this would be an excellent party wine! This wine has a nice spice and is surprisingly bold given the price. A MUST TRY!

TIP: These wines are best if left for an hour or two to “breathe”. I found them all much more tasty a day or two after opening. I simply replaced the cork.

Disclaimer: I am not a wine geek nor educated in “wine speak”. I just enjoy an occasional glass and am always on the lookout for wines with mass-appeal.

If you have tried any of these wines or have a great find of your own, I would love to hear about it!