Every time I hit the wine section at Safeway I’m reminded how good it is. Selection includes an assortment of wineries from the big guys to family run operations. Unlike Trader Joe’s you’ll find a lot more quality Livermore and Napa wineries such as Concannon, Benziger and Kunde. The other nicety is of course, price. If you “mix & match” 6 bottles, you get an additional 10% off the already discounted (sometimes up to 50%) prices.
Try not to snicker, and consider this place to pick up some of your daily drinkers.
On the top shelf you’ll find some reserves and special labels from all the known Napa vineyards including Stag’s Leap, Sterling Vineyards, Grgich, and plenty of other recognizable brands.
I’m always amazed at the quality of wine that can be had for well under $20, especially in Northern California. We are indeed spoiled by the selection, quality and price.
Earlier today, here’s what Loni and I picked up:
Wine, list, price after discount
2006 Kenwood Merlot, $13.99, $8.08
2007 Concannon Sauvignon Blanc, $9.99, $5.38
2007 Concannon Syrah, $9.99, $5.38
2006 Benziger Chardonnay, $13.99, $8.08
2006 Kunde Cabernet Sauvignon, $16.99, $11.68
2007 Rancho Zabaco Dancing Bull Zinfandel, $8.79, $6.28
So there you go, you can have your cake and eat it too. Just scan the shelves carefully. Also, it helps if you visit frequently. When you find a wine you like at a discount, pick up 6 or even a case. The prices are extremely competitive.
Every wine we purchased today is $1-3 less than the community average on Cellartracker. Also several were less than even Costco and Trader Joe’s. But not all. The Merryvale Starmont Cabernet, a favorite of mine and recommended, is still the best deal at Costco at $17.99.
I’ll be posting reviews over the coming weeks. And also stay tuned for an upcoming Trader Joe’s wine survival guide!