Dara Staff Picks: Our Favorite Wines Under 25 JDs

Because great wine doesn’t need a big price tag.

If there’s one thing our team agrees on, it’s that wine is meant to be enjoyed — not overthought. And some of the most memorable bottles aren’t the ones that break the bank, but the ones that surprise you with character, balance, and charm.

So we’ve rounded up our favorite wines under 25 JDs — bottles we actually love, drink at home, and recommend to friends. From refreshing Vinho Verde to soulful Portuguese reds and Italian classics, these wines are perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or that spontaneous gathering with friends.

Here’s your insider list — the staff picks we keep reaching for.

Casal Garcia Tinto (Portugal)

Light, juicy, and effortlessly drinkable — Casal Garcia Tinto is what you pour when you want something red but refreshing. Made from native Portuguese grapes, it’s bursting with red berry aromas, gentle spice, and a touch of sparkle that keeps things lively.

Pair it with: grilled chicken, mezze spreads, or spicy shawarma.
When to drink: slightly chilled on a warm evening or during a casual dinner with friends.

Aveleda Fonte Rosé Vinho Verde

This rosé is sunshine in a bottle — crisp, aromatic, and full of red fruit notes with just a whisper of effervescence. It’s a wine that instantly lifts your mood.

Pair it with: summer salads, sushi, grilled shrimp, or a mezze platter with labneh and pomegranate.
When to drink: outdoor lunches, picnics, or sunset aperitifs.

Aveleda Alvarinho Vinho Verde 2023

A serious step up in elegance — Aveleda’s Alvarinho balances citrus, white peach, and minerality. It’s structured yet refreshing, ideal for those who love a crisp white with personality.

Pair it with: seafood pasta, oysters, grilled sea bass, or even herby falafel.
When to drink: dinner parties or any evening when you want something refined but easygoing.

Mandriola de Lisboa Red 2021

Smooth, ripe, and deeply satisfying — this red from Lisbon delivers lush dark fruit, chocolatey undertones, and a velvety finish. It’s a true crowd-pleaser.

Pair it with: roast lamb, grilled kofta, or mushroom risotto.
When to drink: cozy nights in, especially when the weather cools.

Villa Alvor Red 2022

Hailing from the Algarve, this red blends ripe fruit with a whisper of the sea breeze. Think dark cherry, spice, and gentle tannins.

Pair it with: slow-cooked stews or grilled meats.
When to drink: weekend dinners, ideally with music playing and friends around the table.

Alvaro Castro Dão Tinto 2018

Elegant, earthy, and expressive — this is Portugal at its best. Notes of forest berries, herbs, and a mineral backbone make it feel much pricier than it is.

Pair it with: roast duck, aged cheese, or wild mushroom tagliatelle.
When to drink: when you want something soulful and complex, yet affordable.

Niepoort Nat Cool “Drink Me” Red 2021

Niepoort’s cult-favorite red — light-bodied, funky, and incredibly fun. “Nat Cool” stands for natural coolness: minimal intervention, maximum drinkability. Slightly cloudy and bursting with juicy red fruits, it’s a conversation starter.

Pair it with: charcuterie, roasted vegetables, or anything served outdoors.
When to drink: anytime you want to feel effortlessly cool. Serve lightly chilled.

Campotino Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2022

One of Italy’s most reliable reds — approachable, soft, and full of ripe cherry and plum flavors. It’s everything you want in a comfort wine.

Pair it with: pizza, pasta bolognese, or grilled sausages.
When to drink: casual dinners, movie nights, or weekday unwind sessions.

Campotino Trebbiano d’Abruzzo 2022

A crisp, floral white that over-delivers for the price. Gentle citrus and almond notes make it an easy companion for light meals.

Pair it with: grilled fish, caprese salad, or simple pasta with olive oil and herbs.
When to drink: lunchtime or as an aperitif.

Le Bignele Rosso Veronese “Doseto del Nonno” 2020

A warm, comforting red made by a small family estate near Verona. Think dried fruit, spice, and a touch of sweetness — like a baby Amarone.

Pair it with: lasagna, roasted meats, or aged cheeses.
When to drink: cozy nights and hearty meals — it’s a hug in a glass.

The beauty of these bottles lies in their versatility and value. Most can be enjoyed slightly chilled, especially the lighter reds, and they pair beautifully with everything from Levant mezzes to classic Mediterranean dishes.

Our best advice? Open them often. Wine doesn’t have to wait for a celebration — it creates one.

Whether you’re setting the table for a family dinner or unwinding after work, these are the bottles that remind us why we love what we do: discovering delicious, authentic wines that make life taste a little richer — without emptying your wallet.

So next time you visit the shop, ask about our Staff Picks Under 25 JDs.
They’re the bottles we secretly hoard (and happily share). 🍷