learning on a low budget

[GLSuperfly1211]

I have been a fan of the Merlot for a while now, the last I had was a 2005 yellowtail, but I am looking at other types of wine (Shiraz, chardonnay, cabernet-sauvignon etc.) are there any good vineyards that make a decent budget wine ($20 or less)? I recently tried a 2004 Louis Latour Chameroy and I was not impressed. Any suggestions for an aspiring coinsure?

[winoweenie]

Hi GLS and welcome to the board. For Shiraz you can try any of the many offerings from Australia. My suggestion is to look in the Best Buy thread and you'll get the prices, descriptions, and maker of loads of what the people on the board have found. See the ones that fit your taste profile best and give that sucker a try. Go back a year. You'll find enough to keep you busy. Good luck in your wine travels. WW

[wdonovan]

Or even easier..... Look in the newspapers for local tastings and in wine shops in your area. Some shops have scheduled tasting. A great way to try a number of different wines for a nominal cost. Restaurants (or wine bars) with wines by the glass are another way to taste different things and narrow down your choosings at minimal cost.