Whether you’re looking forward to savoring something new once you wrap up Dry January, or you’re just always on the hunt for a great bargain bottle- Trader Joe’s has some of the best wine buys around (and no, I’m not talking about 2 Buck Chuck). I wanted to share my top 8 under $8 Trader Joe’s winter wines, perfect to cozy up with on a cold night.

My love for Trader Joe’s runs deep for many reasons, but if you’re lucky enough to live near one that sells alcohol, you know how extensive and well-priced the selection is. If you’re not familiar, or just wondering HOW Trader Joe’s can sell good-quality wine and spirits for such a low cost, it’s because they private-label a lot of their alcohol, cutting out the middleman and some of the cost that’s typically passed on to the customer. SUCH a win, in my opinion!

Why I Love These Trader Joe’s Winter Wines

By now, I’ve tried many different TJ’s wines at different price points and different seasons (I’m totally doing a Rose roundup next summer). These Trader Joe’s winter wines (all under $8!!!) are consistently delicious and versatile, particularly considering their pretty awesome price tags.

1. Cocobon Cabernet-

I really love all the Cocobon wines Trader Joe’s carries and this one makes the top of that list. Medium to full body, really nice cherry and dark berry flavors with a smooth finish. From what I can tell, this one is seasonal, so grab it when they have it! $6.99

2. Roustabout Meritage

Roustabout is another blend I love- a Meritage made mostly of Cabernet, Malbec (two varietal faves) as well as some Merlot and Petit Verdot. I really like the hint of smokiness to this one. The description says hints of cigar and silky tannins, which I think work well here. $7.99

3. Maison Barboulot Cabarnet-Syrah-

This is a family favorite my dad introduced us to and it’s really a crowd-pleaser. It’s super smooth yet still has some body, which I always like. Some mellow fruit and savory notes- great wine to serve for parties/big family gatherings where your’e trying to be mindful of cost. $6.49

4. El Castilla Syrah-

I love a good Syrah and this Spanish bottle has dark fruit flavors with a bit of spice. The description also mentions notes of wood and vanilla, which I noticed more after I read it. It’s medium bodied and interesting, especially for the price. $7.49

5. Phigment-

Phigment is full-bodied blend with a bit of spice and notes of dark berries. I’m not much of a Merlot lover on its own but I like it in blends. This is a Merlot/Zinfandel blend, very easy drinking and nice juicy flavor. $6.99

6. Rain Cloud

This is a bolder California blend (Shiraz/Syrah/Cabernet/Zinfandel) with lots of plum/black cherry flavors as well as hints of chocolate. I think the name is appropriate because I always find it extra enjoyable for a little warmth on a rainy, raw day. $6.99

7. Rare Earth Cabernet Sauvignon-

Trader Joe’s has a lot of organic items for incredible prices and wine is one of them. Rare Earth cab is made with organic grapes and is fruit-forward with notes of plum and cherry with hints of vanilla. Easy drinking and versatile. $7.99

8. Cocobon Red Blend-

This is one of my other Cocobon go-to’s. The official description is smooth and zesty with aromas of dark berries and notes of cherry and vanilla, and that about sums it up. It has a bit of a sweeter finish than some of the others on this list but it’s really nice and well-balanced. $6.99

Cheers, friends! Let me know if you pick up any of these and what you think. Oh, and since you’re making the trip, make sure to check out My Tried + True Trader Joe’s Favorites before you go.