Binny's Tasting Panel: Fall New Arrivals Under $30

The Binny’s Tasting Panel is back to take on a tableful of new arrivals, blind. Unlike many blind tastings in which participants know the broad category, say Napa Cab or Chianti Classico, we were truly in the dark with the only clue being- Under $30 and new on the shelf.

Every wine was a surprise, and the only recourse was to swirl, sniff, taste and judge purely based on the quality in the glass. It was an excellent lineup, but we were able to narrow it down to a few favorites through honest, unbiased evaluation. Here are the top wines of the tasting, all highly recommended. Availability varies by location.

Grifoni Pecorino Tara 2023

A plethora of floral aromas and citrus fruit jump right out of the glass. You may even mistake the nose for Viognier or gewurztraminer! On the palate, the wine takes a more autumnal turn with a lovely waxy texture, medium body, orchard and stone fruit flavors and a savory finish. It’s almost as if this summer wine put on a sweater for the cooler days ahead. It’s refreshing yet serious -- an absolute stunner for the price, especially for those wanting a weightier white wine.”

— Alicia B., Wine Educator

Il Selciato Chianti Classico Riserva 2020

“This wine has good acid, good fruit, and good tannins- another fall winner! It will pair beautifully with food and would go very nicely with a Thanksgiving meal, too. It makes me think again of cool nights, sitting by a fire, glass in hand, and being surrounded by loved ones.”

— Margaret B., Wine Consultant, Plainfield

Alexander Valley Vineyards Zinfandel 2020

"Luscious, spicy, and full bodied with just the right amount of decadence, the Alexander Valley Zinfandel 2020 feels like slipping under a cozy blanket. Every glass delivers flavors of blueberry jam and sun-ripened raspberry smoothly intertwined with warming nutmeg, clove, and vanilla.”

— Nathan C., Wine Manager, Orland Park

Vietti Dolcetto d'Alba Trevie 2023

“On the nose this wine is like a bowl of freshly picked ripe raspberries. This lovely wine is totally approachable as an everyday wine to have with a simple cheese and fruit plate but would be right at home on a festive holiday table alongside Turkey and Cranberry Chutney or Roasted Rosemary Pork Loin with Apple Compote.”

— Massimo B., Wine Consultant, Des Plaines

Donnhoff Estate Riesling 2023

“This is perfect for the fall season! When I first tried this wine, it was an immediate win for me. I had images of making a nice risotto and freshly baked bread, gathering family or friends around a warming fire and enjoying this stunning riesling in the crisp, cool, fall air. Mouthwatering acidity makes this incredibly food friendly while sharp notes of lemon and white peach cut through beautifully. Great balance, great flavors, and a great wine all around.”

— Margaret B., Wine Consultant, Plainfield

Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

“This wine has a beautiful balance of fruit, tannins and acidity. Enjoyed on a cool fall evening, it would be a perfect complement to rich, braised short ribs over creamy whipped potatoes or a luscious osso buco of beef shank over mushroom risotto. It would also be equally comfortable alongside a humble holiday ham with roasted sweet potatoes.”

— Massimo B., Wine Consultant, Des Plaines

Girolamo Russo a Rina Etna Ross 2022

“This charmingly rustic red from Sicily bursts out of the glass with bright pops of red cherry, cranberry and orange peel. The perfect amount of grippy tannins and tangy acidity make this the perfect wine for cool fall nights. Just grab yourself a glass and cozy up to a warm fire!”

— Nathan C., Wine Manager, Orland Park