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Here you will wine info, pairings and more...

Wine Info - Wine Articles - Food & Wine Pairings - Wine Advice - Wine Reviews

Tips for Buying Wine

Please keep in mind that these are not hard and fast rules. Everyone must develop their own palate. These tips will give you a place to start.

Taste (Don't rely on the critics)
Buy one bottle first to make sure it agrees with your palette before purchasing several of the same bottle. Just think of a new shampoo you are trying- you wouldn't buy the largest size to try it out, would you?

Diversify (Spice Up Your Life!)
Your passions may gravitate to one kind of wine, but there are many wines to choose from that will tantalize your palate and enhance different types of food- be creative.

Value (Bargain Hunter- Aren't We All?)
Make the effort to look for advertised "Best Buys" to get the most mileage out of your wine dollars.

Drink up (What Are You Saving It For?)
There are fine wines you purchase specifically for aging to maturity. But, even the most age worthy reds can reach drinkability in 10 years. Be careful not to have the heartbreaking experience of pouring your investment down the drain.

Image (Who Needs Designer Labels?)
Too many reasonably priced, well made wines are overlooked due to marketing efforts creating prestigious images of high priced fine wines- don't fall into that trap! Do try wines that are new or not familiar.

Costs (Sometimes Bigger is Better)
If you like it buy it! Many retailers and wineries offer case discounts from 10-20% - some throw in a free bottle. Most discount stores are already reducing single bottle prices by at least 10%.

Vintages (How old?)
What was last year's award winner can be a very different tasting wine each year it is produced. Watch the dates!

Stock Up (You Don't Want To Run Out)
Try not to leave yourself in a quandary about having to open the last bottle of wine. Otherwise, you may have to run to the store when company stops by. Prepare for impromptu entertaining!

Futures (Like a Blind Date)
Futures are wines that have not been bottled yet and are sold below the expected price. So you have not tasted the wine, you are involving gamble and risk, yet it could turn out rewarding if your wine is good!

Personal Criteria (Use Rhyme and Reason)
Once bitten by the wine bug it is just as easy to splurge on wine as it is to buy a great pair of shoes, so analyze your needs before buying a bottle in every color.