“I just don’t think at this age I’m meant to live an uncomfortable life.” – Victoria Ratliff

There is a somewhat (in)famous quote which has been attributed to Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, and various others. “Everything in moderation, including moderation.” Did “The Father of American Literature” or “Ireland’s Greatest Wit” actually say that? Eh, who knows? Who cares? What matters is that we accept and embrace the wisdom.

We are never going to advocate breaking the budget at Piggly Wiggly. Honestly, we are more inclined to suggest something less expensive than the budget you have in mind. But, as Mark or Oscar or someone asserted, everyone once in a while you should, “go big.” We guess “go big” is the modern parlance. Anyways, please keep reading for a few wines which eschew moderation. These are great examples of wines which, while not cheap, are actually tremendous values and are worth it. Just like you are worth it.

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2022 Kumeu River Chardonnay, Hunting Hill

Oh buddy. You don’t like Chardonnay you say? Please let us present the exception to the rule. Some folks who loathe Chardonnay also happen to love White Burgundies. We get it. But here is the crazy thing… the vast, overwhelming majority of White Burgundies are… Chardonnay! This incredible Chardonnay, from New Zealand of all places, is one of the most amazing Chardonnay wines you can find. Our retail of $69.99 is still actually $15 off the regular $84.99 price. It earned a 96 Point rating (if that kinda thing matters to you) from one of the most prestigious wine review sources, Vinous. Treat yourself!

Food Pairing: Try this incredible Chardonnay with some of our in house Chicken Scallopini.

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2021 The Eyrie Vineyards Pinot Noir, Daphne Vineyard

What is this? Oh, just the best vineyard site in Oregon from the best, oldest, and most important producer in Oregon. Some of you may have noticed that we are fans of Eyrie at Piggly Wiggly. There is a reason. The wines from Eyrie are fantastic and some of the best examples of Pinot Noir in the world, much less the US. This gal, she’s Daphne after all, goes for $109.99 -down from a $124.99 regular retail. The 97 Point rating from The Wine Advocate is pretty cool as well. Treat yourself!

Food Pairing: Ask our fishmonger, Ryan, for some salmon. He is sourcing incredible fish from Scotland, The Faroe Islands, New Zealand and more. Pinot Noir loves salmon.

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2022 Te Mata Coleraine

Back to New Zealand? Yes. Yes we are. And we might be just as surprised as you are. We tasted this recently and just kinda looked at each other. We were incredulous. This Bordeaux-style red blend from The Land of the Long White Cloud was on par, or better, with the French inspirations that were twice the price. Is it pricey at $119.99? Sure, but value is the key. And this is a great value. This Southern Hemisphere stunner scored a 97+ from The Wine Advocate. Treat yourself!

Food Pairing: Looking for Certified Angus Beef, American Wagyu, or Australian Wagyu? We keep that on hand. Wanna go crazier? Just ask Josh, our butcher, and he will hook you up. Great red wine with great red meat, just as Mother Nature intended.

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Long story short, treat yourself. You deserve a great wine to go with a great meal every once in a while. Treat yourself!