Discover the delightful mysteries that await you at ALDI, the go-to grocery store that never fails to delight. Longtime admirers of this esteemed German discount retailer extol the virtues of its budget-friendly pricing, the delightful seasonal food discoveries, and the hidden gems lurking in the storied center aisle each week.
However, there’s an area you might have been inadvertently bypassing that is definitely worth your next visit. ALDI boasts an astonishingly vast assortment of wines to explore, many of which are their own private label offerings such as Winking Owl and Specially Select.
At ALDI, the average cost of a bottle of wine hovers around $10, making it an absolute steal when it comes to value. But, you might wonder, are these wines worth your time?
The succinct answer is a resounding yes.
Thomas Price, the esteemed master sommelier and director of wine education at Auburn University, shared his thoughts on the wines he sampled. “I genuinely enjoyed the four wines I tried,” he said. “Are they what I usually drink? Perhaps, perhaps not, but they were overwhelmingly delightful and flavorful,” he further commented.
Sara Jimenez, a sommelier and the owner of Somm in the City, concurs. “The ALDI wines I suggest really exceed their price category and offer much more than you might anticipate,” she noted.
Continue reading to uncover 10 ALDI wines that are a must-try right now, along with insights from Price and Jimenez about each one. The selections and prices may differ by location, but with so many exceptional choices, you’re guaranteed to find one that resonates with you in your local ALDI.
Specially Selected Prosecco Superiore
Jimenez describes this prosecco as “refreshingly crisp, a brunch staple,” and adds that it’s as enjoyable on its own as it is when mixed into mimosas. She applauds ALDI’s sparkling wine selection for its many hidden treasures. Priced at $12.25.
Specially Selected Fleur d’Eau Brut Rosé
“This brut rosé is a festive, adaptable fizzy drink that complements both potato chips and seafood,” Jimenez asserts, noting that it was awarded 86 points by Wine Enthusiast. At this price, you can enjoy a day of rosé without worrying about your wallet. Priced at $12.25.
William Walker Chardonnay
“There are countless chardonnays out there,” Price remarks, yet he emphasizes that when selecting a wine from the grocery store, seeking out a wine from a known region is his go-to strategy. This chardonnay, sourced from Monterey County in California, a region renowned for its exquisite chardonnays, was a no-brainer for him. ALDI suggests pairing it with grilled seafood or creamy pastas. Priced at $11.05.
Landkastle Mosel Riesling
Price was particularly impressed by this riesling from ALDI. He and Jimenez note that Germany’s Mosel Valley is renowned for its rieslings, with flavors akin to crisp apples and peaches. Jimenez suggests that the subtle sweetness is ideal for complementing spicy dishes like buffalo wings. Priced at $7.79.
Specially Selected Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Wine Enthusiast rated the 2024 vintage of this wine at 88 points, deeming it “very good.” According to Jimenez, it embodies a “classic New Zealand sauvignon blanc” with vibrant citrus, tropical fruit, and a distinct herbal kick. She suggests pairing it with seafood or simply enjoying it as you prepare dinner. Priced at $9.95.
Adventure Series Castellore Chianti
Price was particularly fond of this chianti from ALDI. He chose the bottle due to its origins in Italy’s Chianti region, a place that has a distinct sense of place, and it didn’t disappoint. He describes it as featuring ripe cherry and red plum flavors with subtle earthy undertones and a hint of spice. Priced at $6.65.
Evanta Mendoza Malbec
This was another of Price’s top picks from ALDI. Mendoza, a well-known Argentine wine region, offers this wine with a rich and full-bodied character, accented by notes of black currant and raspberry, and a smooth finish. Online tasting notes suggest pairing it with a cheese board or grilled meat. Priced at $6.65.
Winking Owl Sangria
Jimenez dubs this sangria red a “budget-friendly, cheerful choice.” “It’s juicy and fruity, and perfect for making sangria pitchers or cocktail bases,” she says. Add some fresh fruit and a touch of sparkling water to your glass for an authentic sangria experience. Priced at $4.39.
Scarlet Path Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel
ALDI’s tasting notes describe this zinfandel as featuring “cherry, plum, blueberry, black pepper, and licorice with an unexpectedly spicy, smoky finish.” Jimenez suggests this wine is a fantastic companion for pizza, burgers, or any grilled smoky dishes. Priced at $7.79.
Quarter Cut Bourbon Barrel Red
Jimenez cautions that this wine has a distinct “bite” to it, thanks to its aging in actual bourbon barrels. She considers it a crowd-pleaser with hints of vanilla, caramel, and toasty notes and recommends pairing it with the cozy ambiance of fall by the fire. Priced at $11.09.
