We've Paired 16 Trader Joe's Wines With Dinner (And Feel Like True Sommeliers)
We’re not shy when it comes to fangirling over Trader Joe's, and the store’s extensive wine collection is yet another reason to love the brand. You can uplevel any culinary experience with Trader Joe's wines—where affordability meets variety. Whether you're into seasoned meats, fresh seafood, or a charcuterie board, there are bottles of red, white, and rosé wines that will pair with the flavors that you’re cooking up in the kitchen. Read on for some of our favorite Trader Joe’s wines and how you can pair them with your next meal.
How is Trader Joe's Wine Selection?
Trader Joe's is a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering an extensive and diverse selection that caters to every palate. Offering affordability without compromising on quality, Trader Joe's wines have earned a well-deserved reputation for delivering exceptional value. You may have heard of ‘three-buck Chuck’—a range of Trader Joe’s wines that aren’t too bad considering their low, low price tag. (However, inflation has unfortunately brought them to around $6 each.) The charm of TJ’s wine section lies not only in the accessibility of popular labels, but also in the exclusivity of their own brand of wines.
One of the remarkable features of their wine selection is its global diversity. From the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley to the lush landscapes of France and beyond, the aisles feature many international flavors. This global variety allows customers to explore wines from different regions, each bottle telling a unique story. And when you buy in bulk, you get a discount!
Trader Joe’s Wines and Pairings
Whether you're in the mood for a bold red, a crisp white, or a refreshing rosé, Trader Joe's has a wine to suit every occasion. The fall season, in particular, unveils a curated collection of seasonal wines, including spiced apple blends and other autumnal delights. With an emphasis on providing an unparalleled selection, Trader Joe's invites wine enthusiasts to embark on a journey of discovery, savoring one of the world’s favorite drinks without breaking the bank.
Red Wine
Trader Joe’s Platinum Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
What To Pair It With: Korean Beefless Bulgogi
The deep, complex layers of this signature cab find a perfect match with the bold and umami-rich flavors of bulgogi. The wine's dark fruity notes add depth to the dish, creating a harmonious combo of red wine and Korean cuisine.
Villa Cerrina Montepulciano D’Abruzzo
What To Pair It With: Spicy Uncured Charcuterie Selection & Antipasto
This wine’s bold and spicy character complements the diverse flavors of the spicy charcuterie and antipasto. Its robust palate stands up to the flavors of cured meats, while its acidity harmonizes with the array of cheeses and pickled vegetables.
Green Fin Red Table Wine
What To Pair It With: Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
Table wines are made for sipping with dinner, and this fruit-forward red blend pairs seamlessly with the creamy and sweet flavors of Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese. The wine's soft notes and undertones enhance the fall dish, offering a well-balanced and comforting dinner.
Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve Cabernet Franc
What To Pair It With: Italian Bolognese Ravioli
The nuanced fruitiness of the Petit Reserve Cabernet Franc complements the hearty flavors of bolognese beautifully, with a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce for a delightful mixture of flavors and textures. Who doesn’t love a glass of red wine with their pasta?
Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon
What To Pair It With: Savory Herbed Chicken Thighs
The robust, full-bodied nature of this wine complements the savory notes of herbed chicken thighs. With deep flavors that enhance the richness of the dish, the wine's structured acids create a balance between the palatable herb-infused poultry.
White Wine
Trader Joe’s Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
What To Pair It With: Italian Style Wedding Soup
Thanks to its crisp acidity and herbal notes, Trader Joe’s Sauvignon Blanc complements the light flavors of Italian Wedding Soup. The wine's citrus undertones enhance the dish's brightness, creating a refreshing and well-balanced pairing that’s also light on the stomach.
Mbali Chenin Blanc/Viognier
What To Pair It With: Truffle Picante Sauce & Lasagna
The Mbali’s aromatic and floral notes complement the richness of the signature truffle sauce. The wine's acidity cuts through the creamy layers, while the stone fruit undertones add a contrast to the dish's spicy elements.
Pét-Nat Natural Wine
What To Pair It With: Pesto Chicken Breast
One of the first Natural Wines at Trader Joe’s, the Pét-Nat’s light profile is refreshing and full-bodied, perfect for pairing with an herby chicken. The wine's natural and ‘funky’ profile enhances the dish and allows the chicken's flavors to shine against a contrasting pesto. Plus, it’s an easy dinner meal.
Jam Cellars Butter Chardonnay
What To Pair It With: Pepperoni Pizza
You’ve probably seen this chardonnay at other grocers and wine shops–it’s popular for a reason. The wine's oak influence enhances the pizza’s cheesy and spicy elements, while its rich, buttery texture complements the more bold and savory notes. A pairing that elevates your any-day pizza dinner!
Monique Cellars Sauvignon Blanc
What To Pair It With: Sriracha Shrimp Bowl
We’ve got one more Sauv Blanc because it’s a fan-favorite white wine. From Monique Cellars, this wine has tropical fruit flavors that align well with the shrimp and provide a contrast to the spiciness, balancing the heat of the Sriracha against the shrimp's natural sweetness.
Rosé & Fruit Wine
Yes Way Rosé
What To Pair It With: Lobster Ravioli
This bright and crisp bottle is one of the most iconic rosés on the shelf. The wine's refreshing acidity enhances the seafood essence, creating a pairing that makes for a dreamy wine and ravioli night.
J.L. Quinson Côtes De Provence Rosé
What To Pair It With: Pere Brie Cheese
Wines are great for snack pairings, especially for casual hangouts with friends or a small gathering, like a book club. Try serving this elegant rosé with warm brie at your next party. The wine's floral and fruity notes enhance the creamy flavor of the cheese, creating a sophisticated and palate-pleasing combination.
Heartleaf Rosé Wine
What To Pair It With: Fettuccini Alfredo
This rosé’s balanced profile complements the richness of a bowl of Fettuccine Alfredo. The wine's subtle fruitiness and acidity pair so well with creamy Alfredo sauce that there are dozens of rosé-based recipes for the sauce online. Whether you cook with the wine or drink it, you won’t be disappointed.
Love Olivia Watermelon
What To Pair It With: Branzino Filets
Perhaps unexpected, this Watermelon Rosé's sweet, refreshing notes enhance the flavors of the sea bass, pairing well with the light and flaky texture of the fish to create a summery treat for your tastebuds.
Love Olivia Peach
What To Pair It With: Wild Skipjack Tuna & Pita Crackers
Another snack-style pairing, the peach wine's sweetness balances with the tuna, while its crisp finish refreshes the palate. The pita chips give a base for your tuna as well as a joyful crunch.
Spiced Wine
Leelanau Cellars Witches Brew Spiced Apple Wine
What To Pair It With: Breaded Chicken
For an exceptional autumnal experience, pair this spiced wine with Trader Joe’s easy-to-bake breaded chicken. Together, the wine's blend of apples and warm spices harmonizes with the crisp, savory goodness of the breaded chicken to create a mouthwatering experience that is extra enjoyable thanks to the cinnamon and nutmeg.
The next time you visit your local Trader Joe’s, take a stroll through the wine section and browse their vast selection of reds, whites, and rosés. With the store’s diverse offering of exclusive and wide-selling brands, you’ll be delighted to find bold, fruity, and easy-to-drink wines from all over the world. Whether you fancy an elegant chardonnay, vibrant cabernet sauvignon, or upbeat fruity wine, each offers a pairing that will create a symphony of flavors to make your future meals that much more delicious. Cheers to your next culinary adventure!