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.

Four Vines Old Vine Cuvee Zinfandel, 2005, $8.99

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.

Trapiche Pinot Noir, 2005 $7.49

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.