Trader Joe’s is known for its affordable and delicious wines. But with so many options, it can be hard to know which ones to choose. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best wines at Trader Joe’s, perfect for any occasion.
At Trader Joe’s, you can find all kinds of wines from Chianti and Cotes du Rhone to Barolo, Amarone, and Napa Valley Cabernet. And the best part? Most of them won’t break the bank.
Look for the “Trader Joe’s Exclusive” sign on the shelves to identify wines that are only sold at TJ’s. This is important because many of the mass-market wines sold at TJ’s are not priced very competitively and are usually just there to make the private-label wine seem like a better bargain.
The wines that include Trader Joe’s on the label come in a few different “Reserve” levels, from best to worst quality:
Platinum Reserve – At only $14.99, these are selling like hotcakes and won’t last long. They’re normally quite high quality too, so snap them up if you see them!
Grand Reserve – The price points at $12.99, which is Trader Joe’s former top-of-the-line label before Platinum Reserve came out. Even so, the quality is still excellent.
Reserve – You can find some great deals here, with prices starting at only $9.99.
Petit Reserve – Although these products are a little less expensive, around $7.99, we think many of them are still worth a try.
The Benefits of Buying Wine at Trader Joe’s
1. Affordable Prices
One of the best things about buying wine at Trader Joe’s is the affordable prices. You can find a good bottle of wine for under $10, which is a great deal if you’re on a budget. And if you’re looking for something special, they have a nice selection of higher-end wines as well.
2. Wide Selection
Trader Joe’s carries wines from all over the world, so you’re sure to find something that you like. Whether you’re in the mood for a red, white, or sparkling wine, they have plenty of options to choose from.
3. Helpful Staff
The staff at Trader Joe’s are always willing to help if you need assistance finding a particular type of wine or have any questions about the wines they carry. They’re also happy to offer recommendations if you’re not sure what to get.
Red Wines
1. Charles Shaw Pinot Noir: This budget-friendly wine is perfect for weeknight dinners or parties where you don’t want to break the bank. It’s light and smooth, with just a hint of sweetness.
2. Erath Pinot Noir: This Oregon Pinot Noir is a step up in quality from the Charles Shaw, but it’s still reasonably priced. It has notes of cherry and vanilla, making it a great choice for pairing with food.
3. Apothic Red Winemaker’s Blend: This blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah is full-bodied and complex. It’s a great choice for a special occasion or if you’re looking to impress your guests.
White Wines
1. Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc: This New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and refreshing, with notes of grapefruit and lime. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with seafood or poultry dishes.
2. Rombauer Chardonnay: This California Chardonnay is creamy and rich, with hints of oak and tropical fruit. It’s a great choice for dinner parties or as a gift for someone who loves white wine.
3. Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay: This is another great California Chardonnay, but it’s a bit more expensive than the Rombauer. It has all the same delicious flavors, plus a touch of elegance that makes it perfect for a special occasion.
Sparkling Wines
1. Domaine Ste Michelle Brut Rose: This Washington State sparkling wine is dry and refreshing, with hints of strawberry and citrus. It’s perfect for celebrating any special occasion or just enjoying on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
2. Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs: This California sparkling wine is crisp and clean, with subtle floral aromas. It’s perfect for toasting a special moment or enjoying as an aperitif before dinner.
3. Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label Champagne: This French Champagne is luxurious and indulgent, with flavors of citrus and baked bread. It’s perfect for celebrations or anytime you want to treat yourself (or someone else) to something special.
Our Top Picks
In our opinion, the best part about Trader Joe’s wines is that they are all affordably priced, so you don’t have to break the bank in order to enjoy a good bottle. Here are our top picks:
Best White Wine Under $10: 2018 Charles Shaw Sauvignon Blanc
This Sauvignon Blanc from Charles Shaw is a great option if you’re looking for a white wine that is light and refreshing. It has notes of citrus and green apple, making it the perfect wine to enjoy on a warm day. And at just $2.99 per bottle, it won’t break the bank.
Best Red Wine Under $10: 2016 Two-Buck Chuck Cabernet Sauvignon
Yes, you read that correctly—this Cabernet Sauvignon from Two-Buck Chuck (Trader Joe’s house brand) is only $2 per bottle. Don’t let the low price tag fool you, though—this is a surprisingly good wine. It has flavors of dark fruit and spice, and it’s well-balanced and smooth. It’s also a great value for the price.
Best Splurge-Worthy Wine: 2016 Opus One Overture Cabernet Sauvignon Blend
If you’re looking to splurge on a nice bottle of wine, then this Opus One Overture Cabernet Sauvignon Blend is worth the investment. It’s made with cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, and petit verdot grapes from Napa Valley, and it shows off aromas and flavors of blackberry, cassis, and chocolate. It’s full-bodied and well-rounded, making it perfect for special occasions or pairing with steak or other hearty dishes. At $67 per bottle, it’s not cheap—but it’s definitely worth the price tag.
Final Thoughts
No matter what your budget or preferences are, there’s sure to be a delicious wine at Trader Joe’s that you’ll love!
So next time you’re in the mood for some vino, head on over to your nearest TJ’s and pick up one (or more) of these tasty options. Cheers!