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We all take pleasure in finding wines that satisfy us yet do not strain our budget. We can happily return to these wines. Such wines serve our needs and please family and friends.

Canny winemaking occurs everywhere, and it can create surprising wonders even in grapes of putatively little distinction. Wine quality is greater than ever now. Really! The sciences of winemaking and grape growing have increased the knowledge base, giving producers more tools for making great wine. No need for a wine to sit in barrel till it loses all zest. Save the barrels for wines that need the oak element, and use stainless steel vats for those wines that depend on youthful freshness.

In addition to technological advances, regions that formerly made the plonkiest of plonk have realized the economic advantage of producing better wines. Prime case in point: prior to the 1990s, Argentina’s wine industry consisted almost entirely in the production of low-quality wines for local consumption. That seems incomprehensible now with all the wonderful wine the country exports today.

And so it goes throughout the world. So let us introduce you to a smattering of well-priced wines that can be enjoyed any time.

Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Dragani (Abruzzo) $5.99
Montepulciano is a workhorse grape in Abruzzo, producing much of the locally-consumed wine. Deep fruit character offsets a dark, tarry aspect. The style is gulpable with an affinity for meaty dishes, tomato sauces, and pizza. Lay in a supply: wine emergencies do occur, and this versatile wine can meet them.

Chardonnay, Crème de Lys (California) $10.99
We were surprised at this nifty value in California Chardonnay. Typical chardonnay lushness of fruit, but with more oak complexity than you would expect for the money. The wine has a creamy texture and makes you feel, happily, like you got a good deal.

Rioja Crianza, El Coto (Rioja) $11.99
Crianza indicates a wine aged for at least 2 years, one in oak. Here’s where modernization of winemaking shows its fruit. Not so long ago, you’d often find Rioja that have spent too much time in oak. Here you taste the complexity of oak without losing the tempting flavors of the tempranillo grape. A versatile wine, the winery suggests serving it with cod.

Grenache-Syrah, Le Drunk Rooster (Languedoc) $11.99
Le French government dislikes seeing French and English mixed. We, however, do like to see Grenache and Syrah mixed. From Southern France, this is a power-packed yet delicious wine. Grenache provides heady richness while syrah adds its own robustness plus earthy complexity. Roasts, stews, hearty cheeses, or by itself. You need not sacrifice power for value.

Sauvignon Blanc, Oyster Bay $11.99
Pinot Grigio, Kris $11.99 (Italy)
Sauvignon blanc has long been a second choice after Chardonnay, now Pinot Grigio has pulled up to provide affordable white wine options. We pair these two familiar but not exactly comparable whites because both have dropped significantly in price. The Oyster Bay has commanded popularity with its zippy citrus flavors, the Kris with its fresh and inviting fruit. You’ll love them both.

Shiraz, Shoofly (Australia) $12.99
Rated a top value by The Wine Spectator, this is classic Australian Shiraz. Big, peppery fruit, rounded with dusty tannins and plenty of flavor. Just plain delicious.

And not forgetting two lines of solid wines at everyday prices. The U.S. has long been recognized as having very high standard for inexpensive wine. Australia is drawing alongside in that top spot. Both countries produce a lot of well-priced and delicious wines to serve everyday. The following, for sure, rank among the best, if you need reminding:
Woodbridge $8.99 (750) / $14.99 (1.5)
From Robert Mondavi, this label offers tasty, reliable Chardonnay, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot grigio, Riesling, and Moscato
Yellow Tail $7.99 (750) / $13.99 (1.5)
From Australia, these eminently drinkable and popular wines include Chardonnay, Cabernet sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Merlot, Moscato, Shiraz, Cabernet/Merlot, Pinot Noir/Shiraz.