You simply can’t go wrong with a 2005 red Bordeaux, said Dave McIntyre in The Washington Post. Good values abound from the French region, “the most famous land of wine,” where Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon reign supreme. Some Bordeaux wines will always be pricy—those from Margaux, Pauillac, and Pomerol, for example. But the 2005 vintage was so spectacular that even wines from less well-known vineyards show “impressive depth and concentration.” In testing several 2005 Bordeaux that retail for less than $20, these three wines offered especially good value.

Château de Francs 2005 ($18) A stylish wine with “velvety texture and good tannin structure.” Best of tasting.

Château Chabiran 2005 ($14) A classic Cabernet from the Médoc region with a long finish.

Château Prignac 2005 ($11) Another Médoc Cabernet with good balance and impressive finish.