Try One of These Outstanding Italian Wines for Under $20

Aromas of white peach, magnolia, sage and wild mint waft from the glass of this Moscato d’Asti. The palate is a study in balance, as the sweetness bends to the crisp acidity on the finish. 94 points. Best Buy. — Jeff Porter

Delicately pretty, this Gavi enchants with aromas of apple orchard, freshly cut apple, and hints of cider notes that evoke an ethereal presence. On the palate, orchard fruits dance with salty almond and mineral undertones, akin to apples, nuts, and salt. It’s an experience that beckons exploration—a journey worth savoring until the final drop. 93 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Raboso and Corvina from multiple vintages, this wine wafts out of the glass with a depth that shows the passion and dedication of the Fidora family. Aromas and flavors of black cherries, plum, clove, ground ginger, and wild herbs. Elegant on the palate with fine tannins that form a foundation in which the dark fruit notes have a place to fully express themselves on the elegant and seductive finish. 93 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

The wine starts with a whisper of fragrant herbs, salted lemons and crushed seashells asking you to be patient and watch the wine evolve. Mouthwatering on the palate with medium body, loads of texture gives the wine weight but it is lifted by the crisp acidity and citrus flavors that bound across the palate. Finishing with fragrant orange blossoms and salty minerality. Calamari is calling this wine. Drink now–2035. 93 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

An icon of wine, this blend of 90% Garganega and 10% Chardonnay showcases the beauty of this slice of the Veneto. Aromas of ripe stone fruits, lemon oil, jasmine and sweet spice lead you into the glass. Rounded, but with an electric core, the palate shows tart apricot, dried yellow flowers, roasted nuts and a distinct and complex mineral structure that captivates the senses. Drink Now–2035. 93 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

Aromas of a fresh basket of cherries, strawberries and raspberries all dripping with their own juices, leaps from the glass of this sensory overload of a wine, but in a good way). Subtle hints of rose and wild herbs emerge as the wine develops in the glass. Electric on the palate with fresh wild berries on center stage with hints of mint and savory herbs as backup and vibrant bubbles that lift the palate to ready it for the next sip. A great aperitivo, and a must with cured meats. 92 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

The nose starts with the warm earthiness of sage, fennel and bitter orange, then turns sanguine with aromas of graphite, damp soil, black cherry and plum skin. The palate is more fruit-forward, and luxuriously so, but the mouthfeel is generous rather than excessive. Acid flows silently through walls of steep, impenetrable tannins. 92 points. Best Buy. — Danielle Callegari

Wafting aromas of white flowers, fresh herbs, and mixed citrus peel define the nose of this vibrant and fresh wine. The palate pops with pride that knows that its mouthwatering vibrancy will draw attention and make you beg for another glass. Flavors of green pear, orange, lemon and sea salt all swirl across the palate, making this a great wine for a large composed salad, sushi or just by itself. 92 points. Best Buy.  — J.P.

An aromatic journey with scents of tree-ripened green apple, warmed pear, and fresh mountain herbs, this wine captures one’s attention immediately. On the palate, it unfolds with refreshingly citrus and peach flavors that culminate with a stony minerality on the lifted finish. 92 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

Fresh watermelon with bruised mint and savory herbs all work in concert to draw your attention to the fresh and vibrant palate. Tart and crisp with mixed red fruits, dried wildflowers and sea salt on the mouthwatering palate. 92 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

This fully loaded Barbera pops out of the glass with aromas of ripe and tart plum, cherry, violets, turned earth and savory herbs. The palate continues the expressiveness found on the nose with the addition of a spiced tea and bay leaf finishing with zippy acidity. 91 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

The nose balances savory, slightly astringent aromas of coffee, soil, pepper and balsamic with sweeter notes of cherries and blackberries. That berry element glows on the palate, but an enduring peppery earthiness preserves the balance. Firm tannins usher the acid into a sophisticated, salty finish. 91 points. Best Buy. — D.C.

Delicate wildflowers and Meyer lemon zest aromas define the nose of this fresh and energetic bubbly. The palate showcases flavors of green apple and a touch of white peach, leading to a lively and refreshing finish. 91 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

This wine presents classic notes of raspberry, sour cherry and wild herbs, reflecting on the palate with raspberry seeds, green herbs and dusty tannins. Its traditional yet nuanced characteristics offer a rich and complex finish. 91 points. Best Buy. — J.P.

A classic Soave, this wine always delivers and shows why more people should be looking to this region for great white wine. Opening with aromas of white peach, fresh wildflowers and almonds. The palate is bright and textural with some weight but fresh acidity. Flavors of stone fruit and orchard fruit take center stage with a stony minerality on the finish. 91 points. Best Buy. — J.P