Is price an indicator of the wine’s quality?
No. Just like everything else, the price of a wine is related to its cost to produce, scarcity, market demand and reputation. The difference between a Porsche and a Miata or a pair of Manolo Blahniks versus Keds is the same as a bottle of Opus One and a bottle of Woodbridge Cabernet. These are extreme examples, but ultimately, only you – the wine drinker – can really judge whether the wine is worth the price you paid. While you are considering your selection, bear in mind that wines can be undervalued just as easily as they can be overpriced. There are some very good wines being made in Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Chile and these wines do not command the prices that comparable wines from France, Italy or the United States do. Lower costs for land, for labor, favorable exchange rates and market demand all combine to create some very good values from these regions. One last thought: part of the enjoyment of a good wine is being able to sense what makes that wine interesting, different
