Best Cabernet Sauvignon Under $100

The world of fine wine has an expensive reputation. One of the biggest deterrents to becoming a true wine aficionado is the assumed price tag that comes along with this seemingly high-end hobby, and fine wines like cabernet sauvignon can feel out of reach for the average person. But we’re here to let you in on a little secret: phenomenal wine doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, we’ve discovered some of the best cabernet sauvignon under $100 – and we can’t help but share our finds.

At Wine Country Table, we believe that everyone deserves to enjoy great wine. You can experience some of the best wines in California for under $100 – and that starts with some exceptional bottles of cabernet sauvignon.

Ready to savor a luxurious experience without saying goodbye to your savings in the process? Keep reading to discover our favorite affordable cabernet sauvignon wines.

Discover the Best Cabernet Sauvignon Under $100

Cabernet sauvignon is arguably the world’s most popular red wine. A centuries-old classic, this wine is known for its complex flavors and robust tannins, along with its incredible aging potential.

Our team had a mission: to find the best cabernet sauvignon wines for under $100. We’re happy to report that they delivered, and we’re proud to share these exceptional selections from all across California wine country. Affordable wine that doesn’t compromise on quality? Yes, please.

close-up of bottle of cabernet at sunset

2015 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2015 cabernet sauvignon marked a milestone for Jordan Winery – it was the winery’s first cabernet sauvignon to be aged entirely in French oak barrels. Ten years later, this wine is one of our favorites for its easy, effortless elegance that pays such a beautiful homage to the best of Bordeaux.

A silky yet structured wine, Jordan’s 2015 cabernet sauvignon features aromas of black cherries, pomegranate, dried cranberries and a touch of graphite. The French oak lends a hint of cedar, creating a classic, well-balanced wine that complements grilled or savory roasted dishes. Reserved for members of Jordan’s loyalty program

2020 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon

2020 may have been a difficult year for us all, but you would never know that from sipping Jordan Winery’s 2020 cabernet sauvignon. With an exceptionally well-balanced structure, the subtle acidity of this wine captivates the palate.

The tasting notes of the 2020 cabernet sauvignon offer a uniquely harmonious balance, highlighting flavors of blueberry, cranberry and clove, with aromas of ripe black cherry, currant and boysenberry. These dark fruits weave together, all wrapped in smooth tannins created by the French oak. The earthiness of this wine is the perfect companion to vegetarian dishes like ratatouille or mushroom risotto.

2018 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon

If you’re looking for a wine with phenomenal aging potential, look no further than Jordan Winery’s 2018 cabernet sauvignon. Enjoy now after decanting for 45 minutes or cellar through 2038 to experience the rich complexity this wine is capable of developing.

Black cherry, boysenberry, black fig and dark chocolate meet notes of clove and nutmeg for a comforting wine that sings with flavor. You’ll savor every drop as vanilla bean and hazelnut linger on the wine’s finish, velvety and rich in a way that’s nothing short of captivating.

2021 Davis Estates Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2021 Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon from Davis Estates is a treat both to the eyes as well as the palate. Shining with a deep garnet tone and sparkling ruby edge, one look at a glass of this stunning cabernet transports you to a world of ease and elegance.

Experience aromas of blackberry mingling with dried herbs when you taste this rich, earthy wine. Bright red fruit flavors balance with smooth tannins for a vibrant taste that is sure to leave you craving more. This wine pairs well with food as its flavors beautifully complement both meats and roasted vegetables without being too overpowering.

2018 HALL the North End Cabernet Sauvignon

HALL’s 2018 growing season was considered “near perfect” – and their 2018 North End cabernet sauvignon is a stunning reflection of that. Steady, warm temperatures allowed for a long, unhurried harvest, resulting in smooth, polished wines with a gorgeous texture, deep garnet color and great finish.

Bold flavors are the hallmark of HALL’s 2018 cabernet sauvignon, with pure, focused aromas. A very fruit-forward wine, this cabernet sauvignon features flavors of concentrated red and black fruits, chocolate powder and wet stone, along with complementary barrel spices. The dark plum and dark cherry notes meet powerful yet supple tannins in abundance, making this wine a wonderful choice to serve alongside rich foods.

outdoor table in middle of vineyard with glasses of wine
Photo courtesy of Zialena Winery.

Zialena’s 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

Though a year of drought presented a challenge for winemakers, Zialena prevailed with their 2020 cabernet sauvignon. Full-bodied and complex, they’ve produced a rich, layered wine that’s a true showstopper.

Blueberry compote flavors meet brown butter in a harmoniously sweet union that’s balanced with black currant, cured black olives, a note of creamy caramel and a touch of tobacco. Savory accents unite with sweet elements to create a unique Sonoma County cabernet sauvignon that’s sure to age beautifully.

two wines on dimly lit barrel in cellar
Photo courtesy of Garden Creek Vineyards.

2016 Garden Creek Tesserae Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Garden Creek Vineyards, a long term grower at Jordan, refers to their 2016 estate cabernet sauvignon as “a vintage of a decade.” A refined, graceful wine aged in French oak to create gorgeously ripe tannins, this wine is proof that an exceptional harvest can truly make all the difference. 

Subtle, delicate, yet strong, notes of blackberries and black cherries come together with subtle oak, tobacco and spice to create rich flavors of black fruits and cassis. This cabernet sauvignon is velvety smooth, with a long finish that allows you to savor every moment.

2018 JLC ‘Cox Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon

One of our favorite things about the wine industry is how deeply rooted it is in family – and this 2018 cabernet sauvignon from Cox Family Vineyards is the perfect example of that. A tribute to Jack Leroy Cox, the man who started it all, this reserve wine honors the Cox family’s grandfather, who never had the chance to see the wines created in his memory.

Crafted from grapes grown in their grandfather’s favorite block, this exquisite cabernet sauvignon features a wonderfully balanced acidity and tannin, highlighting aromas of ripe black cherry, huckleberry, mocha and spice, with a core of cassis, plum and boysenberry.

Colorful autumn leaves on vineyards rows with hills in background on clear, fall day.
Hills of Munselle Vineyards, one of Jordan’s longtime growers in Alexander Valley.

Munselle Vineyards 2018 Wasson Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon

Straight from the hills of Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, Munselle Vineyards’ 2018 Wasson Ranch cabernet sauvignon is grown in an ideal climate, yielding from soils rich in nutrients with excellent drainage. The byproduct of six generations of Munselle family winemaking and grape growing, this wine is rich in history and legacy. (Another longtime grape grower of Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon.)

A full-bodied wine, Munselle Vineyards’ cabernet sauvignon is ideal to serve with food, particularly savory beef and pork dishes. It also pairs well with Dry Jack, Gruyere, Brillat Savarin and Picolo cheeses.

Lampson Family Wines 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon

Crafted from the rocky soils of the Alexander Valley’s Stone Ranch, Lapson Family Wines’ 2022 cabernet sauvignon is a great choice for wine aficionados who love wines with depth and bold, complex flavors.

Rich, sweet black cherry, boysenberry and plum jam create a symphony of flavor on the palate, intertwined with spiced, toasty notes to fully round out the wine’s taste. Notes of tobacco finish off this cabernet sauvignon, for a bold completion to each sip.

cabernet glasses toasting around a formal dinner table

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Cabernet Sauvignon

Want to learn more about one of the world’s most iconic wines? Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions about cabernet sauvignon.

Where in California are cabernet sauvignon grapes grown?

Cabernet sauvignon is grown across the state, but can predominantly be found in Sonoma County and Napa Valley.

What are some of cabernet sauvignon’s most common tasting notes?

Cabernet sauvignon most commonly features notes of red and black fruits such as blackberry, plum, black cherry and blackcurrant. Notes of black licorice, tobacco leaf, cassis and cedar are also frequently observed.

Does cabernet sauvignon age well?

Yes! Cabernet sauvignon is known for its great aging potential.

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