Modesto wine columnist’s favorite Monday wines under $ 10

I am always on the lookout for quality Monday wines. These are wines that pair well with leftovers, which can be used in cooking or served to those uninvited guests. In other words, they’re inexpensive wine of the day that will get you through the week. Friday wines are special and a bit more expensive ($ 10-20) because, well, it’s finally Friday. However, most of the Friday wines are really open on Thursday which is always okay. Sunday wines are for big celebrations like birthdays, retirement parties or winning the lottery. How much you spend on these crazy wines is completely up to you.

Some of my favorite Monday whites this year were Sauvignon Blanc from Bogle Vineyard, Italian Pinot Grigio from Kirkland, Espiral Vinho Verde from Trader Joe, Chardonnay from Kendall-Jackson and River Junction Viognier from McManis Family Vineyard. My favorite rose was La Vieille Ferme.

Some favorite reds were Castle Rock Russian River Pinot Noir, Terra D ‘Oro Amador County Zinfandel, Bogle Vineyard’s Petite Sirah, Kirkland’s Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Trader Joe’s Caves du Fournalet Côtes du Rhône, Casa Santos Lima Red Blend Portugal and Three River’s Washington Merlot from the Columbia Valley.

To simplify your search for a Monday wine, here are some reliable, readily available, and less than $ 10 brands you can trust; Castle Rock, Columbia Crest, Bogle, McManis, SEAGLASS, Barefoot, Dark Horse and Chateau St. Michelle.

The White Wine Festival is back

Twenty-seven Anderson Valley wineries will be serving up their white wines, sparkling wines, roses, library wines and even some signature pinot noir at the 15th Winter White Wine Festival. The festival returns from February 19 to 20 with sumptuous food and wine pairings, Dungeness crab, paella, cheese fondue and more. You can select which wineries you want to visit each day (four) for the two days. Preferential rates for the cellar pass are available until December 15. For more information, visit www.avwines.com.

The Lodi beer trail

Best known for its award-winning wines from 85 wineries, Lodi is expanding its reputation for its craft beers. With five breweries and four tap rooms, visitors and locals alike experience Lodi’s growing brewing scene. Some have on-site dining options and others bring food trucks. For more information on the Lodi Beer Trail, visit www.visitlodi.com.

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