PLMA names best supermarket private brand wines

As part of its international Salute to Excellence competition, the New York-based Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) named Trader Joe’s Grand Reserve Chardonnay Chalk Hill Sonoma County 2014 as the best-quality U.S. private brand wine in the Chardonnay category, while Whole Foods’ Criterian Chianti Classico 2011 won the same award in the Chianti category. Walmart’s Oak Leaf Shiraz earned the best- value award in the Shiraz category, PLMA said.

Aldi in the United Kingdom was the top vote-getter for quality with its Freeman’s Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2015. Mercadona from Spain, meanwhile, received the most votes for value for its Arteso Crianza 2013 Rioja DOC, the association said.

Professionals from the wine production and retailing industries tasted more than 250 wines from retailers in 16 countries, PLMA noted.  The judges evaluated the wines on several criteria, including appearance, taste, smell and general impression.

“The role of supermarkets in the marketing of wine is growing more important as shoppers seek good quality and [a] good price,” said PLMA President Brian Sharoff. “The retailer’s private label has given consumers the confidence that they can select top wines without paying a premium for branding. This year’s Salute to Excellence gives recognition to those retailers who are doing an excellent job with their wines and encourages other retailers to match or exceed those standards.”