I’m not a wine connoisseur. I don’t even own a decanter. (Some of my married friends own several.)
But I like wine, especially trying different kinds. There are tons of resources out there to help you learn about wine. But I don’t have time to read them. So I learn by doing, or . . . by drinking.
My only problem is knowing which bottle to pick. If you put me in a wine store with over a thousand bottles, I either need a sommelier or a psychiatrist.
I usually start by studying the notes that hang by the bottles. The ones with names attached to them like Wine Spectator or Robert Parker or Bill, the stocker. I contemplate the pictures and colors of the label. I analyze the pricing structure and weigh costs and benefits. Then after an hour or so, when I’m completely frustrated, I make a completely arbitrary decision.
So I’ve come to this conclusion. I need help. And, since my shrink has his limits, I need to find a wine store with people who can help me through the process of buying a good bottle.
All wine stores are not created equal. Here are some of the factors to think about when choosing a wine store:...