Moxie Vino

What's the best wine at Trader Joe's?

Espiral Vinho Verde is the best wine at Trader Joe's for the money (light, crisp and a little spritzy for around $5), while Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon is the famously cheap red that's fine for parties.

Trader Joe's wine aisle is half the fun of going. It is packed with labels you will not find anywhere else, plus a few big names, and prices that start in the single digits. Some of it is a steal, some of it is forgettable. Here is what to grab and what to know before you load the cart.

Reds

  • 1. Trader Joe's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

    about $13

    Cabernet Sauvignon

    The lot-numbered Reserve bottles are where Trader Joe's gets serious. Each lot comes from a different source, so they change often, but they are usually a big step up for the money.

  • 2. Trader Joe's Coastal Pinot Noir

    about $6

    Pinot Noir

    Light, cherry-ish and easy. A good cheap red for salmon, chicken or a Tuesday.

  • 3. Charles Shaw Cabernet Sauvignon

    about $4

    Cabernet SauvignonSkip it

    Two Buck Chuck, now a bit more than two bucks in most places. Simple and soft. Great for sangria and parties where nobody is paying attention.

Whites

  • 4. Espiral Vinho Verde

    about $5

    Portuguese white blend

    Light, lemony and a little bit fizzy, with low alcohol. The best summer wine at TJ's and maybe anywhere at this price.

  • 5. Charles Shaw Chardonnay

    about $4

    Chardonnay

    Soft and mild. Not exciting, but a perfectly decent cooking wine and spritzer base.

Pink

  • 6. La Vieille Ferme Rosé

    about $9

    Grenache blendDrink this one

    Not a Trader Joe's label, but many stores stock it. Dry, light, strawberry-ish French rosé that is hard to beat under $10.

Good to know

Selection varies by state and store
Some states don't let Trader Joe's sell wine at all, and others limit what's on the shelf. Prices, including Charles Shaw's, also vary from state to state.
Grab favorites while you can
Trader Joe's rotates wines constantly, especially the Reserve lots. If you love one, buy a few. It may be a different wine next time.
Ask the crew
The people stocking the shelves often taste the wines and are happy to point you to their favorite under $10. It is the fastest way to find the good stuff.
Drink Vinho Verde cold and young
It is made to be drunk fresh, not saved. Fridge-cold, within the year, ideally outside.

More lists

Last checked 2026-10-04. Selection and prices vary by store and state.