This $6.49 Bottle Of Wine From Trader Joe's Is A Hosting Staple

I always have a bottle of this wine on hand.

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Published on August 8, 2024

Trader Joes grocery store — Photo:
ablokhin/Getty Images

In the heat of summer, there is simply nothing better than a chilled glass of crisp white wine. While I truly love perusing the aisles of a local wine shop to find a fun new bottle to try, sometimes it’s nice to have a go-to that doesn’t require splurging. Though I’m more cautious of super inexpensive wines, especially whites, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank for a good bottle and Trader Joe's Espiral Vinho Verde proves it.

There are a few things you should always buy at Trader Joe's, and this is one of them. The under $7 bottle has been a staple on my wine rack since I first found it on the store’s shelves in 2019. Just about every time I make a trip out to Trader Joe’s, I pick up a bottle (or two…) because I never know when they might be sold out.

Why I Like Trader Joe’s Espiral Vinho Verde

It’s zippy, refreshing, and sparkling—but not overly effervescent. This Vinho Verde hits the spot every time and is practically made for warm-weather front porch sipping from a rocking chair, poolside lounging, and summer sunset viewing. (Though it's just as delicious enjoyed anytime of year, no special occasion necessary!) I like having it on hand for impromptu happy hours or an easy last-minute host gift when zhuzhed up with a nice ribbon and note or wrapped in a decorative tea towel.

Plus, the twist top makes the bottle great for on-the-go adventures and picnics so you’ll never have to worry about a forgotten bottle opener. And of course, you can’t beat the low price. At about $1 per glass, I think it’s especially great for using in lieu of sparkling water or champagne for bubbly cocktails.

What Is Vinho Verde?

Without getting into the nitty-gritty, Vinho Verde is not a grape, but rather a region in northeastern Portugal known for its lush, green landscape and production of equally refreshing white wine named for the area’s vegetation.

Made from a blend of lesser-known white grape varieties, including Alvarinho, Arinto, Loureiro, Avesso, and Trajadura, the Vinho Verde is light and bright with notes of fresh, unripe fruit, lemon-lime, and hints of melon. Across the board, it’s also known for its lower price point and ABV (alcohol by volume) which averages 10-12% by nature. Trader Joe’s Espiral is only 9% ABV.

Southern Living Hugo Spritz on a platter to serve with extra lemons and mint — Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

How I Drink This Wine

Most importantly—chilled! I’ll enjoy a glass of Trader Joe’s Espiral Vinho Verde as is or use to make a fun spritz-style cocktail.

If it’s happy hour, I love pouring a glass to accompany a good nutty and fruity charcuterie board. The subtle effervescence also makes it a nice complement to just about any summer produce-based meal, simple white fish, and crunchy-citrusy salads.

Other Cocktail Ideas

While satisfying for a refreshing glass of wine as is, you can also dress up Trader Joe's Espiral Vinho Verde into your favorite sparkling cocktail. Simply replace the sparkling water or sparkling wine in any of these recipes or craft your own cocktail with it.