While wine has enjoyed a recent surge in popularity in the U.S., winemakers have been scrambling to fill the market with good tasting, profitable wines. Luckily, the regular shopper can benefit from the current upswing as the market fills with reasonably priced wines of excellent quality. Trader Joe’s has long been famous for its affordable wines. Here are three best buys for under $10.
Three Trader Joe’s Wine Picks Under $10
Renwood Syrah, 2004 $9.99
This deliciously drinkable Syrah is characterized by light cherry and bright fruit. A warm upfront flavor wraps around the tongue and delivers a consistent medium body of easy cherry and blackberry. The glowing fruit flavor is maintained through the finish, which glides off the back of the tongue. This makes an excellent table wine that can be drank alone or with light fruits, cheeses and pasta.
Renwood Syrah, 2004 $9.99
Heralded far and wide as one of the best deals in red wine, this Old Vine Zinfandel delivers dynamic characteristics along with a dynamic price tag. This dark wine broods in the glass, giving off rich berry scents. A warm plum spice fills the body of this wine, and a lingering, blossoming finish builds in spiciness and leaves a peppery, dryish feel on the palate with a light sense of oak. This big flavor doesn’t complement light fare and is more at home with red meat dishes, pasta with tomato-based sauce or flavorful cheeses and fruits.
Four Vines Old Vine Cuvee Zinfandel, 2005, $8.99
This playful Pinot Noir has a shy bouquet of clove and cherry. At first taste, this wine seems a shade oversimple with an almost candy-like body. After giving it some air, however, it deepens in complexity and gives way to a nice light body with characteristic dryness and acidity that pinot noir lovers crave. The finish leaves a little to be desired, but the bright cherry beginning will keep you tipping your glass for more.
Trapiche Pinot Noir, 2005 $7.49If you like high quality at a reasonable price, these three wines are sure to please. You could always spend $50 on a vintage bottle, but then again you could probably live on $50 worth of grapes for a month. These under $10 selections let you drink decent wine without having to dip into your grocery fund.
Jake Kulju is a freelance writer, and food & wine reviewer. Visit his web site, www.jakekulju.com.