Reds Under $50

wines

Lovely aromas of violet, iris and perfumed berry lift out of the glass. Firmly structured and focused, the linear palate shows refinement and finesse, with taut, refined tannins framing juicy red cherry, strawberry compote and star anise. Fresh acidity keeps it vibrant and balanced. Best 2029–2039.Decanter Magazine | 95 DECLovely aromas of violet, iris and perfumed berry lift out of the glass. Firmly structured and focused, the linear palate shows breeding and finesse, with taut, refined tannins framing juicy red cherry, strawberry compote and star anise. Fresh acidity keeps it vibrant and balanced. Best 2029–.2039.Kerin O’Keefe | 95 KOThe 2019 Barbaresco fits in perfectly with this portfolio of new releases, and although this is not a single-vineyard expression, the wine shows a ton of territorial and varietal authenticity nonetheless. You get sharp and pinpoint aromas of purple fruits with lifted tones of licorice, earth and pressed blue flower. The mouthfeel is silky and taut.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPBright and expressive, delivering ripe plum, cherry, tar, tobacco and a hint of menthol aromas and flavors. Both fluid and compact, with vivid acidity driving the long finish. Best from 2025 through 2042. 3,500 cases made, 1,200 cases imported.Wine Spectator | 93 WSAromas of sliced strawberries, bark and spices, such as dried coriander and nutmeg. Full-bodied with layers of fine tannins and a lovely texture. It’s very drinkable now, but will be even better after 2023.James Suckling | 92 JS

The 2019 Barolo opens to good balance between tart berry fruit and secondary aromas of toasted spice. Spaced out nicely in between are floral tones, crushed stone and rusty nail. The wine shows rich concentration and lots of dark fruit, yet it also gives room for the more nuanced and fleeting side of Nebbiolo. There is a salty or mineral note that adds a feeling of dryness to the polished finish. Some 15,000 bottles were made.Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 94 RPAlessandria’s 2019 Barolo is gorgeous. Sweet dark cherry, kirsch, cinnamon, rose petal, mint and orange peel lead into a core of soft, open-knit fruit. Silky tannins and soft contours add to its overall appeal. The aromatics alone are beguiling, but it is the wine’s overall balance that is most impressive of all.Vinous Media | 94 VM

The 2019 Luigi Einaudi Barbaresco is a little closed at first, but some notes of cherry, chalk and smoke emerge. It is firmly structured with lots of tannins - prominent but not harsh - and a fine, silty texture. The dark cherry fruit is hidden in the dense structure but persists on the finish along with lots of fresh juiciness. It has a quite long and angular "Giacometti" shape to the wine, and a smoky, chalky austerity. It needs another 2-3 years to begin to unravel but it should keep for 20 years plus.The Wine Independent | 94 TWIA very subtle and pretty 2019 Barbaresco with plum and orange peel, as well as floral undertones. Medium body, fine tannins and an attractive finish. Subtle and rather elegant. Drink now or hold.James Suckling | 92 JS

Bright and well-delineated, exuding cherry, strawberry, rose and earth flavors. Turns firm and tightly wound from midpalate through the finish, showing the austerity of the vintage. There is plenty here, but this just needs time. Best from 2026 through 2045. 3,900 cases made.Wine Spectator | 93 WSPlenty of dried flowers with spices such as cloves and dried lavender. Strawberry and orange peel. Medium-bodied with firm and racy tannins and a fresh and firm finish. A little tight and lean. Should soften and open with time. Better in 2026.James Suckling | 92 JSRipe forest berry, purple flower, oak-driven spice and new leather aromas shape the nose. Linear, savory and focused, the elegant palate features juicy red cherry, blood orange, star anise and hints of cocoanut alongside taut, refined tannins. It’s balanced and energized, with bright acidity. Drink 2027–2934. Abv: 14% Kerin O’Keefe | 92 KOScents of thyme, lavender and licorice root lend an herbal freshness to this wine as mouthwatering acidity delineates its pure dark-cherry flavors.Wine & Spirits Magazine | 92 W&SHigh-toned red fruits mingle with savory spices, leather and tobacco, expressing earthy characteristics. The woodsy palate features dried cherries, and fine tannins that lead to an earthy finish. Drink 2025–2045.Wine Enthusiast | 91 WE