Five red wines under $20 perfect for after a day on the slopes

This time of year Tahoe beckons, and even those of us on a budget can’t stifle our impulse to play in the snow. Luckily, we have a tasty line-up of modestly-priced reds that will marry well with the hearty fare of the Great Outdoors.

After a day on the slopes, the cabs and zins can hold their own with a plate of protein - steaks, pork loin, stews and even big, beefy burgers. If you’re not a carnivore, you’ll appreciate the pinot noir in the mix. It will pair nicely with earthy, vegetarian dishes. While you’re packing your gear and snowbound reds, keep this in mind: Red wine is the best antidote to frost bite.

Sebastiani, 2013 Sonoma County Zinfandel, 14.6%, $17. A snappy zin with a big personality. Tasty layered flavors of black cherry, anise and cracked black pepper. Nice length. A smart pick.

Dry Creek Vineyard, 2014 Heritage Vines Sonoma County Zinfandel, 14.5%, $22. Aromas and flavors of blackberry, plum and cracked black pepper. Finishes spicy. Great backbone (structure). Top rate.

River Road, 2014 Russian River Valley, Sonoma County Pinot Noir, 13.7%, $19. This is a lovely, layered pinot. What makes it a standout is its upfront cherry fruit, while notes of plum, herbs and spice play back up. Well crafted.

Edna Valley, 2013 Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon,13.5%, $17. This cab is dense with blackberry fruit, trumped up with spice. Notes of cedar and pepper. Well integrated. A tasty value.

Louis M. Martini, 2013 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon, 13.8%, $20. A smart, layered cab. Aromas and flavors of currant, black cherry, herbs and cracked black pepper. Concentrated fruit. Good structure. A steal at this price.