5 in 5: Day 2

Yesterday was a lesson in skepticism in wine shopping. Today it's optimism. It's the positive things you should be doing when searching out that next treasure. Because believe me, there is nothing quite like finding an outstanding bottle of wine at a good price! It's like its own little buzz, apart from the alcohol.

Number One: Stick to What You Know
Don't shop the French aisle if you don't know Bordeaux from Burgundy or Loire from Rhone. Don't delve into Italian wines if you can't tell the winery name from the region on the label. Try and focus on your strengths. If you drink a lot of Chardonnay then begin there. If you live in America and speak English, stick to wines with labels you can read. Don't start venturing by yourself into those pesky foreign labels until you feel confident in your abilities. It would be a shame to see you plunk down $20 for a White Bordeaux only to find its past its prime (been there, done that). That leads to number two.

Number Two: Ask for Directions
Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you shop at a reputable wine shop, chances are that someone there knows more than you and is being paid to help you. If you want to try something new ask, "Do you know of a good Red Bordeaux for $20?" Worst case scenario is that the sales person says no and you move on. And if you get a sense that the sales person is talking out their ass (which some of them do) kindly listen to their advice and then throw it away after they leave you to peruse. Plus, most wine shops let the employees taste new wines they reciev, so they can sometimes give you a heads up on a bargain. I was at Cask N' Keg in Mystic looking for a quality $40 to $75 Cabernet when a kind gentleman pointed me towards a bottle of Waterstone for $30. He informed that "rumor on the street is that the juice for this wine came from declassified grapes from Harlan." That means Harlan Estate, a $250 a bottle wine, had too much juice and sold it off at a discount. That juice was certainly not Harlan's best lots, but still damn good. It was the best $30 Cab I've ever had!

Number Three: Do Your Homework
Don't feel ashamed to do some research before heading out to buy some wine. I am sure most of you do that now when buying a new TV or digital camera. So why not do some investigation before hand. The internet has a myriad of wine websites (for example, mine!) that have professional reviews, consumer reviews, and pricing guides. Wine Spectator has some good info for free! No subscription required. However, their website is filled with bountiful info when you do subscribe. Like any other purchase, the more you know walking in, the better off you'll fare.

Well, that will do it for today. The 5 in 5 marathon will have to be five business days as Katie and I set off for the Vineyard on Saturday morning(and I mean morning, like 3 am morning). Till next time..."Why do people who can't take advice always insist on giving it?"--James Bond, Casino Royale