Roskachestvo has challenged the idea that low-priced wine must be poor in quality. According to new findings, the belief that cheap wine is inherently worse is a myth that does not hold up under scrutiny. Roskachestvo’s research and evaluation reveal that price alone is not a reliable indicator of wine quality. In a review of last year’s best samples, half of the top 50 came from price categories up to 500 rubles, while twelve highly regarded wines were purchased within a price range from 169 to 399 rubles. These results demonstrate that affordability does not necessarily compromise excellence.
The director of Roskachestvo’s research and promotion of domestic wine products, Olesya Bunova, explains that a smaller price tag often reflects different market positioning rather than a lack of quality. She notes that the broader picture of wine pricing shows that the size of the wine producer can influence cost, with larger producers often able to offer more affordable bottles due to economies of scale.
Artur Sargsyan, who chairs the Russian Union of Sommeliers and Specialists, highlights a clear trend: the quality of inexpensive wines has improved significantly in recent years. This improvement is linked to investments in state-supported equipment, vineyard development, and more efficient production processes across several producers. The result is a broader range of good-quality wines at accessible prices, expanding options for consumers.
Roskachestvo also stresses that the shop or store where a wine is purchased matters almost as much as the wine itself. In a well-stocked, premium retailer with a wide selection, the price per bottle is unlikely to dip below a certain threshold. This insight encourages buyers to consider the purchase environment, because value can be found in various retail formats, not just discount outlets.
Maxim Kashirin, a prominent figure in the Russian wine trade who has helped establish and lead large premium import operations, notes changes in international sourcing. He observes that European suppliers have raised wholesale prices, a factor that influences the price landscape across the market. Yet this shift does not negate the possibility of finding high-quality wines at reasonable prices, particularly when buyers look beyond the most famous brands and seek value across different regions and producers.
These points come together to form a practical approach for wine shoppers: seek out a diverse range of sources, compare bottles within similar price brackets, and consider the overall value, including flavor, balance, and finish. The emphasis remains on informed choices rather than assuming affordability equates to inferiority. Consumers are encouraged to explore a broad spectrum of wines and to evaluate each bottle on its own merits, with attention to how the wine was produced and how it performs in its own right.
Overall, the findings from Roskachestvo, along with commentary from industry leaders, indicate that low-cost wines can deliver solid quality and enjoyable experiences. Price is a factor, but it is not the sole determinant of value. By looking at producer size, production practices, store quality, and international price trends, buyers can discover wine options that satisfy both palate and budget. This more nuanced view helps explain why affordable bottles can still earn praise from experts and consumers alike, challenging the stereotype that cheaper means lesser quality. The bottom line is simple: price should guide but never dictate quality, and informed choices often lead to surprisingly satisfying discoveries.