Value Unveiled: ’11 Trader Joe’s Vinas Chilenas Sauvignon Blanc

A friend showed up last week with a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc that I had never tried: The 2011 Sauvignon Blanc from Trader Joe’s called Vinas Chilenas.

We popped the cork, and poured a small amount in a glass which revealed aromas of lime, peach and  grapefruit. Although this is light bodied, the pleasant mouthfeel leads to a full flavored wine with zesty acidity and citrus flavors. At first sip, the acid seemed a bit rough on the palate, but it mellowed after being open for a while.

When my friend revealed the price, a whopping $3.99, I almost fell over. While this is far from being the best Sauvignon Blanc I’ve ever had, it’s well worth its price.

Come summer, the Vinas Chilenas will undoubtedly be packed alongside all of my camping gear to be popped during the bonfire on the beach.