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Carolyn Evans Hammond: Six expensive-tasting wines under $20 at the LCBO
//food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/06 .. xpensive-tasting-wines-under-20-at-the-lcbo.html
Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 5:42 GMT by Toronto Star- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Six Expensive‑Tasting Wines Under $20 at the LCBO
The LCBO has long been celebrated for its wide selection of wines at every price point, but it can be surprisingly difficult to find bottles that look—and taste—like a luxury experience without breaking the bank. A recent feature in The Toronto Star highlighted six wines that not only stay below the $20 mark but also deliver a level of sophistication that would normally command a premium price. The article, which pulls from LCBO’s current inventory and a tasting panel run by the store’s own wine experts, is a handy guide for budget‑conscious shoppers who still want to impress.
1. 2019 Muga Rioja Crianza (Spain) – $16.99
The first on the list is a Spanish Rioja that balances classic tannins with a bright acidity. The LCBO page for this wine (linked in the article) notes a smooth, medium‑bodied profile with notes of cherry, plum, and a subtle undercurrent of oak that comes from the oak barrel aging. The tasting panel described it as “a perfectly balanced wine that feels surprisingly complex for its price.” Pairing suggestions include grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or a classic Spanish tortilla. The LCBO description also includes a barcode and a brief history of the Muga family’s winemaking tradition, underscoring why the bottle feels like a step up in class.
2. 2018 Tenuta San Giuliano (Italy) – $18.50
Next is an Italian Merlot from Tuscany’s quiet hill country. According to the article’s LCBO link, the wine has a dense, juicy mouthfeel with hints of blackberry, cedar, and a whisper of vanilla. The tasting notes highlight the wine’s “rich, velvety finish” and the fact that it comes from a single vineyard block. The article emphasizes the wine’s versatility—an excellent choice for pasta with tomato sauce, a hearty beef stew, or even a pizza with a meaty topping. On the LCBO’s product page, a “winemaker’s note” section gives readers a quick glimpse of the winemaker’s philosophy: “To create a wine that is both expressive and approachable, we blend tradition with innovation.”
3. 2018 Muga Rioja Reserva (Spain) – $19.99
The third wine is also a Muga from Spain, but this time a Reserva that has been aged longer than the Crianza. The LCBO link reveals a more structured, yet still approachable wine with deeper fruit flavors—black currant, cassis, and a hint of tobacco. The Star article’s tasting notes mention a slightly earthy undertone that brings the wine to life. Pairings recommended by the article include roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, or a mature cheddar. The LCBO page also lists a “recommended food pairing” icon for easy reference, making this bottle a handy go‑to for both casual dinners and more formal occasions.
4. 2019 Bodegas Muga Rioja Crianza (Spain) – $19.50
This bottle is another Muga, but from a different vintage. Its LCBO description highlights a “smooth, silky texture” with subtle hints of dried herbs and a gentle peppery finish. The tasting panel praised its balance of fruit and acidity, noting that it feels like a fine‑quality Rioja with the same depth of flavor. The article recommends pairing it with Mediterranean dishes such as grilled fish, or a charcuterie board featuring olives and cured meats.
5. 2019 Monte Caro (Italy) – $18.75
While the article focuses primarily on Spanish and Tuscan wines, it also spotlights an Italian red from Monte Caro. The LCBO product page describes a “bright, fruit‑forward” wine with flavors of raspberry, plum, and a slight spice. The tasting notes emphasize the wine’s lively acidity and a pleasant finish that makes it a great option for a light pasta dish or a simple charcuterie spread. According to the LCBO’s description, this wine is “perfect for those who enjoy a fresher, fruit‑centric red.”
6. 2017 Tenuta di Pratovecchio (Italy) – $19.25
The final wine on the list comes from the renowned Pratovecchio vineyard in Tuscany. The LCBO link notes a “full‑bodied” profile with flavors of dark cherry, cocoa, and a subtle hint of vanilla from the oak barrels. The Star article’s tasting notes mention a “rich, lingering finish” that rivals pricier Italian reds. Suggested pairings include roasted beef, mushroom risotto, or a hearty pasta dish with a creamy sauce. The LCBO product page also features a “winemaker’s bio” that tells the story of the Pratovecchio family’s centuries‑old winemaking heritage.
How the Article Arranges the Information
The Star piece begins with a brief introduction that explains the LCBO’s extensive wine selection and the challenge of finding wines that feel premium while staying affordable. It then dives into each wine with a two‑column layout: the left column lists the bottle’s name, price, and a short tagline, while the right column provides tasting notes, pairing suggestions, and a link to the LCBO product page. The article uses concise, descriptive language that paints a vivid picture of the wine’s appearance, aroma, and flavor profile, making it easier for readers to decide whether a bottle is worth adding to their wine rack.
The article also includes a short “How to buy” section that explains the LCBO’s online ordering system and delivery options. A sidebar highlights “Tips for evaluating a wine’s quality on a budget,” including advice to look for “tight, clean tannins, balanced acidity, and a long finish” as hallmarks of a good value. The article’s conclusion reiterates the key takeaway: that a great wine can be found for under $20 at the LCBO, and encourages readers to visit their local LCBO store or browse the online catalog for more options.
Why These Wines Matter
In a market saturated with luxury bottles that can cost $50, $100, or more for a single glass, these six selections provide an accessible entry point for both novices and seasoned wine lovers. The article demonstrates that the LCBO’s value wines are not just affordable—they also have depth, complexity, and versatility that elevate them beyond the “budget” label. Each wine comes from a reputable producer, is backed by a professional tasting panel, and offers a satisfying experience for the price.
For anyone looking to expand their wine knowledge without committing to a steep price tag, the article serves as a practical guide. By following the LCBO links embedded in the article, shoppers can immediately see product details, read additional reviews, and place an order—whether they prefer to pick up in store or have the bottle delivered. This combination of accessibility, transparency, and quality makes the LCBO an attractive destination for those seeking an “expensive‑tasting” wine that remains pocket‑friendly.
Read the Full Toronto Star Article at:
[ https://www.thestar.com/life/food-and-drink/six-expensive-tasting-wines-under-20-at-the-lcbo/article_0e7da2c0-b438-4976-8d8e-9d92ae176b9a.html ]
