Out of the Box: Bottled Wines Under $15

2009 Barahonda Monastrell ($12): This full–bodied red is rife with the intense, earthy flavors of a much more expensive wine; perfect to avoid eye rolls at a classy joint like Matyson or Pumpkin.

2010 Elsa Bianchi Malbec ($9): Even if you didn’t go abroad this semester, you can still impress your worldly friends with this Argentinian number. This jammy, hearty red will compliment any meat–centric entrée, like the lamb shank at Aksum.

2010 Jean–Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rosé Coteaux d’Aix–en–Provence ($12): Ideal for a picnic by the Schuylkill (if you can stand the stench, that is) or snacks in high rise field, this mild, crisp rosé sure beats the questionable pink water that comes out of a Franzia box.

2010 Trumpeter TorrontEs ($12): Not just for the ladies, this South American white’s zesty, vibrant notes brilliantly harmonize with any spicy cuisine. To help you handle the heat, tote it along to your next BYO at Banana Leaf or Han Dynasty in Old City.