For the past couple of weeks, I have been writing about how consumers who want to learn more about wine can do so by reading wine books, attending tastings and starting their own wine groups. But when it comes right down to it, the best thing to do is to simply taste more wine. The trick, however, is finding wines that will expand your horizons without shrinking your bank account. When I was starting my own wine education, I cut my teeth on red Bordeaux wines because that was what my wine group could afford. But increasing demand in Asia combined with the climbing value of the euro has sent prices for grand cru wines through the roof. The idea of spending north of a $100 for a learning experience is a bit outlandish. The good news is that with advances in winemaking techniques and choices from more countries, there are some very good wines that offer a lot of “palate education” for the money.

I have compiled a list of several wines that any wine novice or accomplished enthusiast can try for around $12 a bottle. Retail prices are approximate.