The Best Trader Joe’s Wines under $20 for Your Holiday Parties, Plus Delicious Pairings to Try
Stock up on these crowd-pleasing wines that'll have guests asking where you found such great deals
If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly drinks for your holiday dinners and get-togethers, look no further than Trader Joe’s! The grocery store chain offers a wide variety of wines that are perfect for entertaining.
“You can find great wines under $20 from Trader Joe’s,” assures sommelier Jaime Mazur of JaimeSays. “I tend to go for European wines since European sustainability standards are a bit higher than those in the US.”
But there are both imported and American wines at the store that are just as good as more expensive varieties—and pair well with some Trader Joe’s food staples. Below you’ll find expert and shopper picks for the best Trader Joe’s wines for your holiday season.
Lacheteau Touraine Sauvignon Blanc or Lacheteau Pouilly Fume
These under-$10 aromatic wines with vibrant citrus notes are made from the same grape but from different areas of the Loire Valley in France.
“These Sauvignon blancs with their zippy acidity will work well with umami-rich mushroom and onion or garlicky treats,” says Mazur. “Pick up the mini mushroom tartlettes, Everything but the Bagel Cheese Spread or caramelized onion goat cheese log.”
Grand Reserve Chardonnay
The $12.99 Trader Joe’s exclusive is from Carneros, an area in the Sonoma County region of California. You’ll find it works best with cheese boards or dishes featuring a lot of dairy.
“It is going to cut through really heavy foods, so it really goes well, for example, with mashed potatoes, which is going to be in many people’s meals,” Colin Fields from Trader Joe’s wine, shares on the “Trader Joe’s Wine Club” podcast. “But it really can stand on its own.”
Moon X Pinot Noir
When you buy this affordable wine ($8.49), you’ll be treated to the flavor of warm spice, rich vanilla and dark fruit in what’s known as “Big California Pinot” style.
“It is easy drinking, a crowd pleaser, but not boring, and a great value,” revealed a Reddit commenter. “They have several single varietals, I like the red blend the best though.”
Compass Bridge Pinot Noir
For tangy cranberry notes, you’ll want to grab this $10.99 bottle. The Sonoma County wine also is heavy on black cherry aromatics, delivering a bold, memorable taste.
“This is the type of red wine, so the Pinot Noir grape, [that] does go really well with turkey,” Fields reveals on the podcast. “It also goes great with ham and other types of meats. But really it’s because this wine is not heavy. It doesn’t have a ton of oak, so it’s not overly dry.”
That makes it a perfect option for a Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner!
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
This bottle may only be $7.99, but it’s a quality drink and a Trader Joe’s staple! It’s a go-to for not only its low price but the distinctive fruity flavors and enticing aromas too.
“The juicy, red fruit notes and smooth tannins allow it to accompany highly herbed appetizers and cheeses rather than to clash,” explains Mazur. “Pair with the TJ’s Raisin Rosemary Crisps and one of their Unexpected Cheddars as well as their Syrah Soaked Toscana Cheese Spread.”
Secco Frizzante
This sparkling wine (usually between $7 and $13) hails from Northern Italy and is known for its refreshing flavor.
“I enjoy really sweet alcoholic drinks and they are good by themselves or blended with fruits,” raves a Reddit user.
Customers say the wine is great on its own, but it pairs equally well with some Trader Joe’s staples. Try it with coconut shrimp for a match made in Heaven!
With any of these wines in hand, you’ll be celebrating in style without breaking the bank—and that’s something worth toasting!
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