PLMA Reveals Top Private Label Wines

Costco, Trader Joe's and Aldi came out on top in Private Label Manufacturers Association's (PLMA) 2018 International Salute to Excellence Awards, which reviewed more than 300 wines from 39 supermarket chains in 13 countries.

The U.S. retailers were recognized in three of the most competitive categories, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sparkling wines.

Aldi’s Broken Clouds Chardonnay Sonoma Coast 2016 ($8.99) was recognized for best quality and best value, while Trader Joe’s Reserve North Coast Brut Sparkling Wine ($9.99) and Costco’s Kirkland Signature Series Stag’s Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 ($21.99) both were honored for best quality. 

“The recognition of these three U.S. retailers by the judges again confirms the growing sophistication and competitiveness of American private label brands, even when placed up against some of Europe’s best-known and most popular supermarket wine programs,” said Brian Sharoff, president of PLMA, which created the Salute to Excellence wine competition three years ago. 

Wines were entered into the competition by retailers or purchased off shelves and selected by panels of judges that included masters of wine, sommeliers, wine writers and retail industry professionals, according to PLMA.

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