Forget the stuffy wine merchant—the best tasting and most award-winning vintages are now found in the chilled aisles of your local supermarket. Our experts have done the hard work for you, blind-tasting hundreds of bottles to bring you the definitive list of the finest plonk money can buy.
The Ultimate Supermarket Wine Hall of Fame
Gone are the days when a trip to the off-license was necessary for a quality bottle. Supermarkets have upped their game, offering an incredible selection of exclusive, expert-curated wines that consistently beat prestigious competitors in blind tastings.
Best Overall Red: The One to Beat
Waitrose Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2022, £13.99
This elegant red from Burgundy is a perennial favourite for a reason. It offers a stunning depth of flavour with notes of red cherry, earthy undertones, and a silky smooth finish that belies its very reasonable price tag. A versatile companion for everything from a weekday roast to a sophisticated dinner party.
Best Overall White: A Crisp Champion
M&S Classics Sauvignon Blanc 2023, £9
This Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is a masterclass in balance. It delivers the classic punchy notes of gooseberry and passionfruit but with a refined acidity that makes it incredibly moreish. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a truly world-class white.
Best Sparkling: Fizz Without the Fuss
Tesco Finest Premier Cru Champagne, £25
Why pay for a big name when you can get this exceptional quality from Tesco? This Premier Cru Champagne is complex and toasty, with fine bubbles and a long, elegant finish. Perfect for celebrations or for simply elevating a Tuesday evening.
Where to Shop for Your Perfect Bottle
Each supermarket has carved out its own niche in the wine world:
- M&S: The undisputed king for consistent quality across its entire range, particularly strong with its own-label classics.
- Waitrose: A haven for wine lovers, offering a brilliant selection of finer wines and exclusive partnerships with renowned vineyards.
- Tesco: The best for value and choice, with its Finest range consistently delivering award-winning bottles at astonishing prices.
- Sainsbury's: A strong all-rounder with a fantastic Taste the Difference range, especially good for crowd-pleasing crowd-pleasers.
Top Tips for Picking a Winner
- Trust the Supermarket's Label: Own-brand ranges like 'Tesco Finest' or 'Taste the Difference' are carefully curated by wine buyers and often represent the best value.
- Look for Awards: Bottles adorned with medals from competitions like the IWC or Decanter World Awards are a safe bet for quality.
- Don't Fear the Screw Cap: It's a sign of a modern winemaker and ensures consistency, especially for fresh, aromatic whites.
- Explore Lesser-Known Regions: Some of the best value is found in wines from countries like Portugal, Greece, and Slovenia.
So next time you're doing the big shop, don't just grab any bottle. Use this guide to transform your weekly supermarket run into a vinous adventure, discovering incredible wines that delight the palate without draining your wallet.
