Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve GSM – Tart!

Just $7 for this tart little number, the Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve GSM from the Arroyo Seco AVA in Monterey County.

A GSM blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre from Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California.

This wine is available exclusively at Trader Joe’s and sells for just $6.99. It is vinted and bottled by ASV Wines, a company that specializes in producing private label wines in San Martin, California.

The Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve wines are the lowest level of “reserve” wines that bear the Trader Joe’s name falling below the standard “Reserve” label, the “Grand Reserve” label, the “Platinum Reserve” label and the new, top of the line “Diamond Reserve” tier. Priced at around $7, we’ve found the Petit Reserves to be a bit hit and miss. Let’s see how this one measures up.

The 2018 Trader Joe’s Petit Reserve Arroyo Seco GSM begins with pleasing aromas of black cherry, cranberry, licorice and a little mint. Taking a sip reveals loads of tart, bright and juicy fruit, a smooth mouthfeel, a medium body and lots of acidity. It tastes a bit like Sweet Tarts candy (in a good way). Overall it’s pretty simple but definitely has lots of fruit flavor for the price. It ends dry, tart (did we mention that it’s tart?) and medium-long.