March 29, 2009

Wines for the Recessionista - Bottle #3

As if we didn't know we were already on the right track, a survey just released this week by Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. shows that consumers are enjoying wine and spirits as they take a break from depressing nightly news segments, rally cries for economic help by our President, and the ever-present layoffs happening nationwide!

The survey found that 88% of consumers consider wine and spirit beverages an affordable luxury. Of which, 50% said they are beginning to host parties at home vs. going out to save a few dollars (Are we smart of what? Refer back to Wine Recessionista Tip #2!)

So in light of this new research, we've decided to throw out the best penny-pinching wine on the market... the "2 Buck Chuck" - this wine's so popular it even has a shirt made after it! 

Charles Shaw Wine (aka "2 Buck Chuck") is produced in California and exclusively sold at Trader Joe's (and I'm pretty sure its the most often purchased wine by my friends). They have a wide variety of selections including reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Merlot, as well as white like White Zin, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio. 

Now, I'm sure Robert Parker would agree that you can't compare the "2 Buck Chuck" to, oh say, a '73 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, but considering its budget-friendliness, these wines actually aren't too shabby, and most of them have pretty decent flavor. Think about it this way... when you dine out, you often say, "Oh that was/wasn't worth the $15 I spent on it," right? For $2, I think you can take one for the team and at least give it a shot... you actually might be pretty pleased with what you find.

Charles Shaw Wines are sold for $1.99/bottle, but note that depending on the market the price may be as high $4/bottle. 



2 comments:

Lisa said...

Haha, I like the '73 Chateau Montelena reference.
These recessionista posts are helpful - I just started a little "potlucking at someone's house" tradition and inexpensive wine is a necessity for these gatherings since we're young, close-to-broke and like to drink wine. I'll definitely use one of these suggestions for our next dinner!

WinoBee said...

So glad you are finding the posts helpful. We've been surveying around and asking people what some of their favorite under $15 wines are. Definitley more suggestions coming your way in the next few days!