The 5 Best Cheap Wines

College is such an amazing learning experience. You grow so much in those four years and the knowledge you take with you is truly invaluable. For instance, I learned how to go out when you have absolutely no money, how to take margaritas to-go (don’t try this at home), and ya know –all the business degree stuff too. Okay okay, all jokes aside…. through trial and quite a bit of error, I really did find the 5 best cheap wines! 

Important notes: All 750ml bottles on the list are under $10… holla! I’ve tried all wines included on this list in Pinot Grigio and Cabernet, therefore those are the types I am vouching for. And lastly, all of the wine is at least 11.5% alcohol or higher so, you have been warned. 

Related post: Best Cheap Wines For Summer

The 5 best cheap wines compliments of your favorite red-headed wino:

1. Winking Owl

This is Aldi’s own brand of wine. It is absolutely delicious and only $2.89. Yes you read that right, less than $3 and wholeheartedly my wine of choice. I have tried the Shiraz in this brand as well and it is equally tasty as the Pinot Grigio and the Cabernet.

Trader Joe’s has their own brand of wine and it is NOT good. Don’t think they’re comparable. You will be sorely let down. Trader Joe’s is also slightly more expensive.

2. California Roots

I am sure you’ve seen this one before! This is Target’s own brand of wine. I like California Roots because their Pinot Grigio is slightly sweeter than most which is a nice change of pace. Each bottle is $5 and the labeling is super cute.

3. Barefoot

You didn’t think I would leave out old reliable, did you? This is not new information for any cheap wine connoisseurs but it wouldn’t be an accurate wine list if I didn’t include this tried and true classic. Plus, if you don’t have an Aldi or Target local, Barefoot will always be there for you.

4. Flip Flop

This is another really tasty yet underrated wine option. The only drawback is that it is not available everywhere. Some Publix’s carry it and some don’t. However, it is very often on sale for 2 for $11 which totally makes up for its exclusivity. Plus the cute flip flop labeling just screams summertime!

5. CK Mondavi

This is actually one of my new finds! When it comes to wine choices, I haven’t changed much since college. I stumbled across the big bottle (1.5L) on sale for $8.98 at Winn Dixie and I couldn’t pass up trying it. It did not disappoint and I would consider it very comparable to Barefoot, but cheaper. This brand is available at some Publix’s and Walmart.

Bonus: Keel & Curley

Keel and Curley wines are a bonus option because they are definitely still budget friendly but they are more than $10. My favorite flavors are Wild Berry, Strawberry, and Black Raspberry. Keel and Curley is great option for holidays and host gifts because they do fun seasonal flavors and I haven’t had one I didn’t like yet! Keel and Curley is available in some Publix’s and online. They ship to most states AND if you use code “REDSENTME”, you’ll get 15% off your order!

Whether you’re meeting the parents, hosting a dinner party, or balling on a budget, you’ll thank me for having this list at your disposal. Wine doesn’t have to be $20+ to taste good and I promise no one will notice that you’ve taken the cost-effective route. Don’t worry girl, I got your back.

-The Relatable Red