The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Experts reveal the best wine to buy at Sainsbury's right now, from white to rosé. The list includes a 'rosé that overdelivers for the price'.
With sunny weather persisting, Sainsbury's is an ideal destination to stock up for outdoor gatherings, whether you are grilling a BBQ feast or relaxing with a glass of wine. Renowned for its extensive and varied wine selection, Sainsbury's offers everything from organic options to award-winning bottles, making it a dependable choice for everyday sipping and special occasions. Currently, savvy shoppers can benefit from Nectar deals—at the time of writing, there is 25 per cent off when you buy six or more selected bottles.
Given such a broad range, narrowing down choices can be challenging. That is why two wine experts have been consulted to highlight their standout recommendations from Sainsbury's current lineup. Whether you seek a crisp white, an easy red, a refreshing rosé, or something fizzy for celebration, these bottles are worth purchasing.
Meet the Experts
Hoping to make wine more approachable, Luke Flunder shares his expertise and recommendations across Instagram and TikTok, where he has built a following of over 215,000, as well as on his Substack, 'Flunder Wine World'. He began his journey in the industry at Majestic Wine before launching his own wine business.
Jane Peyton is founder of the School of Booze consultancy. Jane was the UK's first accredited cider sommelier, Britain's first Beer Sommelier of the Year, and is a former Drinks Educator of the Year. She is the author of numerous non-fiction books including Wine Knowledge Box and The Philosophy of Gin.
Best Sparkling Wine at Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Crémant d'Alsace
"The crémant train continues to gather momentum in the UK, and this is a standout expression," says Luke Flunder. Expect "crisp apple and citrus, a gentle brioche note, and a clean finish." "It's the balance that makes it so enticing and keeps you coming back for another sip," according to Flunder.
Codorníu Vintage Cava
Spain's oldest winery, Codorníu was the first to produce Cava. "Cava is made in the traditional method (the same way champagne is produced), so this is a quality glass of fizz," says Jane Peyton. "I can't resist an invigorating sparkler, and this wine has green apple aromatics, zesty citrus flavours and bright acidity," she adds.
Best White Wine at Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Alsace Gewürztraminer
"Few wines can be identified by the first sniff, but gewürztraminer is one of them," says Peyton. "With this wine's flamboyant lychee and rose petal aromatics, followed by ginger spice and tropical fruit on the palate, it is a memorable drinking experience. Even more so when matched with fragrant Thai or Vietnamese food. It is off dry, so the slight sweetness means it admirably matches spicy dishes."
Bellingham Bernard Series Old Vine Chenin Blanc
"South Africa has developed an excellent reputation for its chenin blanc, and here is a brilliant example of why," explains Flunder. "Rich and textured, with ripe pear, stone fruit and a lovely thread of honey running all the way through. There's a depth here that you simply don't expect at this price."
Best Rosé at Sainsbury's
Mirabeau X Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine
This bottle is "a taste of Provence, the spiritual home of rosé wine", says Peyton. "It's a vibrant wine with juicy peach, melon and grapefruit flavours that makes me want to sit in the sun overlooking the Côte d'Azur. With its dry palate and high acidity, I shall be drinking it with the Provençal dishes of tapenade and salade niçoise for lunch."
Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose Rosé
Flunder describes this as "an elegant, delicate rosé that overdelivers for the price." "I've tasted it blind against more expensive labels on several occasions, and it more than holds its own. Light, dry and refreshing, with bright strawberry, raspberry and a touch of citrus."
Best Red Wine at Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's Château de Pierreux Brouilly
"This is a Beaujolais that truly delivers," according to Flunder. "From Brouilly, one of the ten crus, it shows a richer, more expressive style while staying beautifully balanced. Ripe plum, blackberry and cherry lead, with a touch of dark chocolate on the finish. Works with a little chill time and is a superb summer option."
Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Sicilian Nero d'Avola Red Wine
"This wine ticks everything I look for in a red wine," says Peyton. "Bold flavours, moderate tannins, bright acidity, and a silky mouthfeel. It's a lip-smacking fruit salad of blackcurrant, raspberry, strawberry and pomegranate with a hint of spice. I'm drinking it with grilled swordfish and will save a glass to match with a wedge of Pecorino cheese."
