Don't let Trader Joe's brainwash you into thinking their Two-Buck Chuck is the only game in town when it comes to inexpensive wine. There are plenty of affordable bottles out there that aren't utter plonk. Over at The Huffington Post, Alex Milling has compiled a list of some of her favorite wines for everyday occasions. They made not be the best wines you've ever had, but that's not the point -- what's important is that they certainly won't be the worst.
Get the list after the jump.
Pepperwood Grove Pinot Noir 2008, $5.95: A Chilean Pinot Noir that is dark and easy-going with a well-balanced blend of spicy cherry and earthy flavors. Enjoyed with Kate while procrastinating studying and contemplating the confusing nature of males.
Rex Goliath Cabernet Sauvignon NV, $4.97: From the Central Coast of California this Cabernet is very smooth with a cedar and oak start and a deep fruity finish. Enjoyed with Lucia while watching 'Love and Other Drugs.'
Andre Brut NV, $4.99: A California sparkling wine composed of a refreshing mix of white varietals. Enjoyed on countless occasions, particularly excellent when celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Barefoot Pinot Gris NV, $6.99: A bright California Pinot Gris that is bright, light-bodied, and offers crisp apple and citrus flavors. Enjoyed with Margaret during breakfast, lunch, dinner, or anything in between.
Trader Joe's Coastal Sauvignon Blanc 2009, $4.99: Another favorite from the Central Coast of California that is simple with subtle notes of peach and citrus. Enjoyed on a spring break road trip in northern California.


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4-13-2011 @4:53PM Veuve Clicquot said... Andre? Really? The convenience store choice for sparkling wine? Was the Cold Duck too costly?
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4-14-2011 @12:27PM YourMomsPast said... Boones Farm Strawberry wine was particularly good for those "occasions" at the drive in watching B-movies.
4-14-2011 @3:36PM RDLfinewine said... Andre is weasel piss!!!!!!!!!!
4-14-2011 @10:24AM Andrew said... Night Train Express!
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4-14-2011 @6:45PM starvinmarvin said... I agree with Rex Goliath - haven't tried Pepperwood.
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4-15-2011 @12:37AM pd39 said... Why would an aol classic like their food section be promoting huffpoop?
This is proof positive that aol is now the new huffpoop, and further away from the average American view. RIP aol, your (last) day will soon come.
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4-14-2011 @2:41PM karen said... Butterfield Station is the absolute best bottle of chardonnay you can get for $6.99 ($5.99 in some states.) Learned this from the highest of high society mavens in town. They all serve it at their daughters' weddings!
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4-14-2011 @3:02PM petey said... Andre Brut would be better for getting tar off your car!
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4-14-2011 @3:14PM Lu said... Placido Domingo is one of the best cabernet savignons (for under 10.00 though)!!!
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4-14-2011 @7:10PM doris said... i really love arbor mist wines but especially the blackberry and the exotict fruits
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4-16-2011 @11:27AM v jones said... I also like the Arbor Mist wines but they are more like soda w/a kick.I like Barefoot Zinfandel also.
4-14-2011 @5:36PM CAV44 said... Tastes in wine is certainly a subjective thing but, "good Chardonnay" is an oxymoron if ever I've heard one.
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4-16-2011 @7:55AM mason younG said... The Charles Shaw 'Shiraz' is my favorite "inexpensive" choice...although no longer "two-buck-chuck-,,,still one of the 'best bangs' for your dollar...if you like Red,
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4-20-2011 @3:42PM Saving Happy Hour said... Trader Joe's also does a nice Merlot. Very smooth and last time I was in the store, it was only $4.99 a bottle. http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Saving-Happy-Hour/115716008509414
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