Five tasty Costco wine finds under $10

Snap out of it.

That’s what I tell the people under my roof when they want to go to Costco. Why? Because it always sets us back $300. We get excited about saving money on jumbo-sized everything and, as you know, saving money adds up.

That said, I recently went on a solo mission to Costco to peruse the wine section. You’ll be astonished at the $10 and under category. It’s not vast, but there are reputable brands, current vintages and a good range of varietals.

Shopping at Costco is not like strolling down the aisles of a wine shop. There’s always a congested freeway of shoppers to contend with. But there is an upside: $10 and under gems. You can actually save money … if you can resist the kayak on your way to the checkout counter.

Here are 5 Costco gems to get excited about:

Poizin 2014 California Zinfandel, 14.8%, $8.89. This is a zin with a range - bing cherry, toast and cracked black pepper. It has ample fruit, but it’s the kick of spice that wins you over. Spooky in a good way.

Terra D’Oro, 2013 Amador County Zinfandel, 14.5%, $9.99. A spicy zin with dense fruit, plum and blackberry. Zin-fanatics fond of balance over power will go for this. Firm tannins. Nice length.

Robledo, 2013 the Seven Brothers, Lake County, Sauvignon Blanc, 14.5%, $5.89. This sauvignon blanc has notes of grapefruit, lime and mineral. Zesty spice. Dry finish. Lovely.

Matua, 2014 New Zealand, 13%, $7.89. For those crazy about New Zealand sauvignon blanc, this bottling won’t disappoint. Its aroma of jalapeño is enticing, and on the palate there’s grapefruit, lime and more jalapeño. Striking.

Chateau St. Jean, 2013 North Coast Chardonnay, 13.4%, $8.69. A layered chardonnay that over-delivers. Aromas and flavors of honeysuckle, pear and apple. Rich fruit coupled with bright acidity. A steal for the price.