Summer sipping doesn’t get much better than these five wines under $20

Here’s an all-American lineup of five “great value” wines, all under $20, to enjoy during your July 4 cookouts. We have three stellar rosés from California’s Paso Robles, New York’s Finger Lakes and Oregon plus two rich, juicy reds to match with your burgers or ribs from the grill.

Daou Rosé 2019

3 stars

Paso Robles, Calif., $18

Strawberries, cantaloupe and muskmelon aromas characterize this wine, which almost seems like a farmers market in a glass. Kudos, too, for an elegant bottle that seems to enhance the perception of the wine without elevating the price. Delicious. Alcohol by volume: 13.7 percent.

Spellbound Petite Sirah 2017

2.5 stars

California, $15

This is a luscious, sweet-ripe California red that combines in-your-face fruit with a bit of smoky tobacco complexity. When I say “sweet-ripe,” I mean the wine tastes of ripe, sweet fruit – in this case, blackberries and raspberries – not that the wine is sweet and treacly. On the contrary, this is a fine example of a California wine made in sufficient quantity to be widely available to proffer excellent quality for the price. Pair this with grilled beef or sausages. ABV: 13.5 percent.

Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red Lot Number 69

2.5 stars

California, $16

Based on zinfandel, Marietta’s Old Vine Red is a consistent value from the Golden State. Grapes from different years are blended to maintain consistency, thus the lot number rather than a vintage date. Flavors are deep and savory, with cranberry, raisins and plums, as well as a hint of sage. Great burger wine with good availability, and can often be found cheaper than the list price. ABV: 13.5 percent.

A to Z Rosé 2019

2.5 stars

Oregon, $17

Delightful flavors of raspberries, strawberries and wild herbs characterize this lovely wine from Oregon. Try it with spicy foods, pre-meal noshes or just sip it on its own. ABV: 13 percent.

Keuka Spring Dry Rosé 2019

2.5 stars

Finger Lakes, N.Y., $17

This lovely wine is a blend of lemberger (also known as blaufrankisch), cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon. So its flavor profile definitely speaks to the Finger Lakes of New York rather than the Mediterranean coast of France. Candied cherries, wild herbs and a hint of apricot tease the palate, with enough acidity to keep the wine refreshing. Savor this on its own, with light summer lunches or with pre-dinner appetizers. ABV: 12 percent.

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3 stars exceptional, 2 stars excellent, 1 star very good

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Prices are approximate. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor.