Taxes and wine? Probably not like peanut butter and jelly as far as things that go together harmoniously. (Disclaimer: I am not an accountant but I do feel it safe to advise you to postpone wine drinking until completing your tax forms.)

But hold on a second.

Taxes and Wine

While dreaming up ideas for the April issue of Wine Enthusiast, Tax Day looming over everyone’s head, I thought, “How about some wine recommendations for those who owe money and need to engage in some belt-tightening? And for folks lucky enough to be in the black and expecting a refund, a few splurge-worthy bottles?”

I called on three of the magazine’s contributing editors, each providing a budget-conscious pick as well as a celebratory one. You’ll find selections from Argentina, California, Chile, and Germany. Red, white, sparkling? You bet.

If you’re wondering what I would choose, ponder no more:

• SAVE: 2015 Viu Manent Estate Collection Reserva Sauvignon Blanc ($8*): Really, all their wines are a great value. I’m especially fond of Chilean Sauv Blanc. Don’t recall ever having a bad one. (For a few dollars more, the “Secreto” line is also worth exploring. Who wouldn’t want a white wine with “oceanic zest and length“? That’s a great tasting note.)
• SPLURGE: NV Vilmart & Cie Cuvée Rubis Brut Rosé ($75): When I desire a richer-style Champagne, Vilmart is my destination. An all-time favorite.

Find out more bottles to save/splurge on:

Six Tax Time Wines

*Prices are national averages taken from Wine-Searcher.

Photo by John Morgan via Flickr.

Tags: chilean sauv blanc, rich champagne, taxes and wine