Wine Discoveries: Trader Joe's Gems and New Additions
Grenache, GSM blends, a Margaux splurge, and lessons learned
New Purchases
I've been diving deeper into the world of wine, and my latest finds have been quite satisfying. The online reviews don't lie; the 2021 La Sonriente from Trader Joe's is a gem at just $7. This pure Garnache/Grenache is a fantastic addition to my collection and is the main component of many red blends, especially my growing favorite GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre) wines. I also scored the 2016 Rancho Viejo, a GSMT (with Tempranillo), which has been a delicious complement to the La Sonriente.
- → 2021 La Sonriente — $7 — Pure Garnache/Grenache. A bulk-buy gem; fruit-forward and fantastic value. Main component of GSM blends.
- → 2016 Rancho Viejo — $7 — GSMT (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo). Smooth and delightful; a great complement to the La Sonriente.
- → 2019 Margaux Grand Cru — Chateau Giscours — An upmarket splurge; part of a plan to keep 4–5 quality bottles on hand for special occasions.
Building the Wine Rack
I've mostly filled my 24-bottle wine rack from IKEA, which I picked up for $60. The Omar Bottle Rack is now home to 19 bottles. I'm drinking a bottle a week, allowing me to refill 2–3 bottles every two weeks on my Trader Joe's visits, while also making sure to pick up a nicer bottle monthly. I plan to limit my collection to 20 bottles and keep the top row empty for airflow.
Giscours Margaux — Meh
I paid $60 for the Margaux with high expectations. While it's decent — better than a $10 wine — it didn't impress me for the price. It's only marginally better than the $20 range and comparable to the $30–$40 wines I've tried before. If it were priced at $20–$30, I'd be thrilled, but at $60, it felt underwhelming.
La Sonriente as a Bulk Buy
I've been relying on Reverse Wine Snobs for wine reviews, and they align well with my tastes. I agree that La Sonriente is a solid bulk buy. It's not the greatest wine, but at this price point, it offers fantastic value — cheaper than beer! It has a very fruit-forward flavor that shines on the first day.
Although it gets slightly bitter and acidic on the second day, it's still enjoyable. On the third day, I usually only have enough left for one serving, but I've found that sipping some ice water between tastes on the second day actually enhances the flavor.
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