At Clif Family Winery & Farm, we are committed to overdelivering with our selection of organically farmed wines at approachable prices. We're enthusiastic about our wines but we also love celebrating the great work of our fellow winemakers. That's why we're sharing a curated list of other fantastic California wines we enjoy sipping when a Clif Family wine isn't in our glass.
California is world-renowned for its award-winning wines, a testament to its superb growing conditions and centuries of winemaking expertise. We're here to share the secrets to sourcing delicious, high-quality California wines under $50.
Why Focus on California Red Wines Under $50?
California boasts diverse wine regions that are ripe for exploration, from the globally famous Napa Valley and Sonoma to the popular Paso Robles, Central Coast and unique, lesser-known AVA's (American Viticultural Areas).
We've landed on California red wines under $50 because this price point offers a sweet spot where quality, value and exciting discovery intersect. You'll find amazing craftmanship without breaking the bank.
How We Curated this List of Top California Reds
We created this list based on several criteria:
- Reputation for Quality: Wines known for great winemaking.
- Discovery Factor: Wines you might not find on your neighborhood shelf, including both established wineries and newer, emerging producers.
- Our Favorites: Of course, we had to include a few Clif Family wines from the Napa Valley.
Our Top Picks: Best California Red Wines Under $50
Clif Family Wines (Napa Valley)
Clif Family 2023 Gary's Improv Zinfandel, $50
Prepare to have your taste buds dazzled by this wine's stunning ruby hue, bursting with flavors of chocolate-covered cherries, succulent blackberry pie and a subtle hint of black pepper and sage. The bright and zesty palate is balanced with a lively acidity that carries the wine into a long, satisfying finish.
Clif Family 2022 The Climber Red Blend, $42
The 2022 Climber is fruity and warm, with notes of juicy plum, sun-ripened black raspberry and hints of cinnamon and woody cedar to keep it grounded. A versatile blend of 80% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. We like to pair it with a rich chili, a cozy campfire and, of course, the perfect adventure partner.
Clif Family 2022 Vino Del Pranzo Cabernet Sauvignon, $50
At a lower alcohol of 12.5% ABV, delicate aromas of cedar and plum set the stage for this beautiful wine. On the palate, silky tannins and a graceful balance lead to a long, lingering finish. With its lower alcohol content, this is an effortlessly food-friendly California Cabernet Sauvignon, complementing a variety of dishes without overwhelming the experience like hangar steak, mac & cheese or eggplant parm.
Other Recommended California Red Wines Under $50
LOLA 2022 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $40
This Russian River Valley Pinot Noir is a deep garnet color with complex aromas of wild strawberry, cherry, red currant and forest floor, accented by notes of dried tea, rose petals, cedar and vanilla bean. On the palate, bright acidity and a supple texture are accompanied by delicate tannins and a long, lingering finish. This wine is a beautiful expression of the cool-climate Sonoma region.
Lang & Reed 2023 Cabernet Franc, California, $40
The nose offers crusher red stone fruits and violet petals with scents of potpourri. The flavors are juicy and tart, mirroring the stone fruit, with the addition of dried cranberries. Acidity leads the finish, making the wine mouthwatering, carrying fruit flavor, anise and typical graphite notes. While it is still a tad racy in its youth, it makes a great foil to robust stews or rustic charcuterie.
Matthiasson 2023 Carignan, High Valley, Shannon Ridge Vineyard, $49
This 100% Carignan comes from the organically farmed Shannon Ridge Vineyard in High Valley AVA. It features plenty of red berry flavors complemented by savory spice notes and plenty of freshness, along with savory Provençal herbs like rosemary and thyme. Juicy with moderate tannins and bright acidity, this is a versatile California red wine that stands up to food from the grill while still being light enough to be enjoyed during the warmer months.
Tips for Finding Your Own Hidden Wine Gems
Discovering the best value wines is part of the fun! Here are a few tips to help you find more excellent California red wines under $50:
- Explore Different Regions: Look beyond Napa and Sonoma to areas like Lodi, Lake County or the Santa Cruz Mountains for outstanding value.
- Don't Overlook Smaller Producers: Emerging or boutique wineries often offer incredible quality-to-price ratios as they build their reputation.
- Ask Local Wine Shops: Your local wine professional is an invaluable resource for recommendations on hidden gems.
- Use Wine Discovery Apps: Check platforms like Vivino, Cellar Tracker and wine threads on Reddit to see what others are enjoying.
- Trust Your Palate: Ultimately, the best wine it the one you enjoy most. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Enjoying Your California Wine Experience
To get the most out of your under $50 California red wine:
- Serving Temperature: Most red wines are best served slightly cooler than room temperature, between 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. A quick 10-15 minutes in the fridge can help.
- Decanting: If the wine is young (under 5 years old), decanting for 30-60 minutes can help open up the aromas and soften the tannins.
- Pairings: Don't overthink it! The best pairings are often the simplest. Try a bold Cabernet Sauvignon with a steak or a lighter Pinot Noir with roasted chicken or mushroom dish.
Happy Exploring your way through the world of California Wines! When you're in Napa Valley next, book a tasting at the Clif Family Tasting Room to explore delicious red wines and more with us in Downtown St. Helena.
