#1 — 2007 Trentatre Rosso
#2 — 2007 Rabbit Ridge Allure de Robles
#3 — 2008 Sauvignon Republic Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc
#4 — 2008 VINTJS Syrah
#5 — 2007 Now & Zen Wasabi White
#6 — 2007 Perrin Cotes du Rhone Reserve
#7 — 2008 Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Carmenere
#8 — 2006 Chiusa Grande Tommolo Montepulciano d Abruzzo
#9 — 2008 La Granja Tempranillo
#10 — 2007 Dr. Beckermann Piesporter Michelsberg Riesling Spatlese
2008 Blue Fin Chardonnay
Price: $3.99 @ Trader Joe’s
What They Said:
Per Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer “For a number of years, we sold a great-tasting Chardonnay called Blue Fin that was made for us by one of Napa’s oldest wineries. And then they decided to “retire” the label. Bad. Then, fortuitously, one of our long-term wine partners bought the label, and offered us a great deal on Blue Fin Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Good. As we mentioned, this is a label we (and you) know and love, so quality and consistency are key. After all, what good is a low price if the wine doesn’t taste good? We guarantee Blue Fin Wines taste as good as ever. Blue Fin Chardonnay features elegant flavors of fig, tropical fruit and spice, with just a hint of vanilla. This is a truly refreshing wine.”
What I Think:
An unnamed long-term wine partner? Do tell… it has now proven to be yet another offering from Bronco Wine Co. most famously known for lavishing the world in Two Buck Chuck. With that out of the way let me try to remain objective. Couple that with the fact that I usually don’t get along with Chardonnay and that may be a difficult task. With the wine in the glass I was greeted with a bouquet of nectarines. On the palate the wine was fresh and crisp. At this end of the price scale the only oak you get is toasted chips which they thankfully passed on for this offering. The palate is filled with white apple flavors leading to a steely balance on the finish. This one brings an old saying to mind; “Simple is as simple does.” Chalk this one up as a surprise, a nice, easy going picnic wine.
Rating: 12th Bottle
I remember seeing this in the Fearless Flyer and I thinking, “I wonder if Jason’s reviewed this one yet.” Now that you have, I think I’ll pick up a bottle.
Erroll
Erroll, I can recommend this Chard at this price. That said the yet to be reviewed Pinot, as should be expected for $4, is awful.
I totally disagree with your comment on the Pinot Noir Jason. It is one of the best I’ve ever had and for the price…I’ll be coming back for more.
@emanon I hear you and others on the Pinot. In my post you’ll see that I am leaning towards giving it a do over…
where can i purchase Blue Fin Pinot Noir???
@mary The Blue Fin Pinot is available at Trader Joe’s
Blue Fin Merot is not longer available at Traders Joe’s, they are not carrying it anymore. Can anyone tell me where to find this, it is the best.
Thanks
Jane – I just picked up a bottle today at Trader Joe’s, and the shelf was full! I’m in Washington State – the store is in Everett…..just an FYI – you might want to check again..
@Jane The Blue Fin is made by Bronco Wine Co, the esteemed makers of Two Buck Chuck, and is a Trader Joe’s exclusive offering. You may want to check out this list of the other Bronco labels, see which they have at Trader Joe’s and try a few in hopes of finding one of those Merlot’s agreeable. That is unless as Julie says it is back in stock! Thanks both for the comments.