From the magical moment the bride glides down the aisle to the joyous clinking of glasses during heartfelt toasts, weddings are a celebration of love, unity, and unforgettable memories.
Did you know? The tradition of raising a toast at weddings traces back to ancient Greece! By clinking glasses forcefully enough to create a sound, it was believed any lurking spirits would be scared away, allowing the newlyweds to enjoy a blissful, harmonious life together.
In modern weddings, wine has become more than just a drink – it’s a symbol of joy and sophistication, a shared experience savored by couples and guests alike. A thoughtfully chosen wine enhances each moment, from the reception’s first toast to the last dance.
In this article, let’s get you schooled to find out the best wine for wedding under $40.
Looking for the best wedding wines Singapore? Visit Benchmark Wines.
10 Best Wedding Wines Under $40
| Wine | Grape Variety | Region | Flavors | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bocelli Family ‘Rosso di Toscano’ Sangiovese IGT 2017 | Sangiovese | Tuscany, Italy | Cherry, chocolate, herbs | Pasta, pizza, Italian dishes |
| Hazyblur ‘The Vino’ Shiraz 2007 | Shiraz | Barossa Valley, Australia | Blackberry, oak, spice | Grilled meats, cheese, chocolate |
| Cantine Due Palme ‘Pillastro’ Primitivo 2020 | Primitivo | Puglia, Italy | Plum, blackberry, spice | Hearty dishes, cheese, chocolate |
| Ch. Montet Grande Richesse 2009 AOC Bordeaux | Bordeaux Blend | Bordeaux, France | Black cherry, cassis, earthy tones | Roasted chicken, grilled meats, cheese |
| Tulloch ‘Vineyard Selection’ Chardonnay 2021 | Chardonnay | Hunter Valley, Australia | White peach, citrus, vanilla | Seafood, chicken, cheese |
| Tim Adams ‘Mr. Mick’ Cabernet-Merlot 2015 | Cabernet Merlot | Clare Valley, Australia | Blackcurrant, plum, mint | Lamb, beef, cheese |
| Paxton Organic Rose 2021 | Shiraz, Grenache | McLaren Vale, Australia | Wild roses, strawberries, thyme | Seafood, salads, light cheese |
| Fuddling Cup Margaret River ‘SSB’ Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc 2016 | Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc | Margaret River, Australia | Lemon, stone fruit, minerality | Seafood, salads, light cheese |
| The Vinita Wines ‘The Giri’ Garnacha DO Alamansa 2016 | Garnacha Tintorera | Alamansa, Spain | Blackberry, plum, spice | Grilled meats, cheese, chocolate |
| Helen & Joey Estate ‘Inara’ Rose 2015 | Pinot Noir, Shiraz | Yarra Valley, Australia | Strawberry, raspberry, rose petals | Seafood, salads, light cheese |
1. Bocelli Family Wines ‘Rosso di Toscano’ Sangiovese’ IGT 2017
The Bocelli Family Wines ‘Rosso di Toscano’ Sangiovese is a quintessential Italian red, capturing the essence of Tuscany with flavors of cherry, chocolate, and herbs. Its bright acidity and lush, approachable profile make it ideal for both light appetizers and main courses, from pasta to Italian-inspired meats. This wine’s smoothness ensures it won’t overwhelm, allowing it to pair beautifully with a wide range of flavors – perfect for those mingling moments and early wedding celebrations.
2. Hazyblur ‘The Vino’ Shiraz 2007
Barossa Valley Shiraz is known for its richness and intensity, and the Hazyblur ‘The Vino’ Shiraz 2007 is no exception. This wine’s deep garnet color and full-bodied profile create a luxurious experience with each sip. With notes of blackberry, oak, and spice, this Shiraz pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, cheeses, and even chocolate desserts. This bold and smooth wine is excellent for the dinner portion of your wedding, enhancing savory and indulgent flavors in your main courses.
3. Cantine Due Palme ‘Pillastro’ Primitivo 2020
Originating from Puglia, Italy, this Primitivo offers a deep, velvety color with aromas of plum, blackberry, and subtle spice. Known for its full-bodied yet smooth mouthfeel, Cantine Due Palme’s ‘Pillastro’ Primitivo brings warmth and depth to the dining experience, pairing well with hearty dishes like roasted lamb, beef, and various cheese boards. Its bold flavors create a sense of richness, making it an ideal choice for the main course, particularly if you’re serving Italian-inspired cuisine.
4. Ch. Montet Grande Richesse 2009 AOC Bordeaux
Bordeaux wines are renowned for their elegance, and this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot from Bordeaux is a testament to that. With its deep ruby color and aromas of black cherry, cassis, and earthy notes, the Ch. Montet Grande Richesse pairs beautifully with classic wedding fare like roasted chicken, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. Its structured profile and fine tannins make it a wonderful choice for toasting or pairing with the main meal.
5. Tulloch ‘Vineyard Selection’ Chardonnay 2021
This Hunter Valley Chardonnay offers a fresh, bright profile with aromas of white peach, citrus, and a hint of vanilla. Its crisp acidity and creamy texture make it an ideal pairing for lighter dishes, from seafood starters to chicken and vegetable-based entrées. Tulloch’s Chardonnay is an excellent choice for a summer or outdoor wedding, adding a refreshing yet sophisticated option for guests who prefer white wines with their meals.
6. Tim Adams ‘Mr. Mick’ Cabernet-Merlot 2015
The Tim Adams ‘Mr. Mick’ Cabernet-Merlot is a fantastic blend with a rich ruby color and balanced flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and a touch of mint. This medium-bodied wine complements red meats and savory dishes without overwhelming the palate. Its approachable taste and smooth tannins make it suitable for a wide range of palates, ensuring that it appeals to seasoned wine drinkers and casual guests alike. This is a versatile option for the main course and will shine alongside beef, lamb, or a charcuterie spread.
7. Paxton Organic Rose 2021
If you’re looking for a refreshing, lively wine to serve during cocktail hour or as a light pairing with salads and seafood, Paxton’s Organic Rose is a perfect choice. Made from Shiraz and Grenache grapes, this wine showcases a pale salmon color and aromas of wild roses, strawberries, and thyme. Its crisp, dry profile and flavors of grapefruit, plum, and watermelon make it ideal for summer weddings, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to your wine selection.
8. Fuddling Cup Margaret River ‘SSB’ Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc 2016
This blend from the Margaret River region combines the best of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc, creating a fragrant bouquet of citrus, minerality, and grassy notes. With flavors of lemon curd and stone fruit, this wine is an ideal choice for seafood courses, salads, and light appetizers. The Fuddling Cup SSB’s bright acidity and clean finish make it perfect for pre-dinner sips, as well as a refreshing option to complement lighter dishes throughout the meal.
9. The Vinita Wines ‘The Giri’ Garnacha DO Alamansa 2016
The Vinita Wines ‘The Giri’ Garnacha is a bold, full-bodied wine with dark fruit flavors and firm tannins, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy rich, intense wines. Originating from Spain, this Garnacha offers notes of blackberry, plum, and spice, pairing well with grilled meats, tapas, and aged cheeses. It’s a versatile red for main courses, adding Spanish flair to your wedding’s wine list. Its robust character and long finish make it a memorable choice for toasts or evening celebrations.
10. Helen & Joey Estate ‘Inara’ Rose 2015
This delicate Rosé from the Yarra Valley is a blend of Pinot Noir and Shiraz, presenting a pale pink hue and fragrant aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and rose petals. With a crisp, refreshing palate and flavors of red berries and citrus, Helen & Joey Estate’s Inara Rose is perfect for outdoor and daytime weddings. It pairs wonderfully with seafood, salads, and light cheese platters, making it an elegant choice for cocktail hour or as a refreshing option throughout the celebration.
Conclusion
Choosing the best wedding wines under $40 allows couples to offer an exquisite wine experience without breaking the budget. Each of these wines brings something unique to the table, from bold reds to refreshing whites and rosés. Benchmark Wines provides a curated selection that caters to every wedding theme and palate. Visit our website to explore more and make your wedding an unforgettable celebration with wines that are both exceptional and affordable.
Further Reading - Cheers and Cheese: 8 Evergreen Wine and Pizza Pairing