When I observe certain wines in my department, selling out on a regular basis, I often wonder why. Price is a big part of course, but there has to be more to it than that. A wine can be cheap, but if it’s not good, people wouldn’t be coming back for more (at least I hope not). This has inspired me to do a series on my YouTube channel. I’m going to review three wines from different categories that are my top movers under twenty bucks. The reason is to edify myself as to what customers are looking for in a certain wine and of course to honestly grade them. My first episode, which is out there already is a review of three Pinot Noirs that are under the twenty-dollar price point. It was interesting to note that all three were quite different in style. The one from Oregon was truly Burgundian in style whereas the two from California were quite different from one another. I had trouble finding a common denominator in that episode. That could speak volumes for my customers who obviously know what they want in a wine.
The second episode features Zinfandel, all from California. On reviewing these, I was able to nail down a common element that brought people back for more. All three had the fruit forward style so many look for in Zinfandel. However, there were some interesting differences that made each one unique. You should check these episodes out, I think you will find them quite intriguing. The next two episodes will feature Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. By the time I finish reviewing all these wines from different grape varietals, I should have a better bead on what folks are looking for in wines under the twenty-dollar price point.
The weather is finely improving and wouldn’t you know it…Rose’ sales are picking up rapidly. I’ve said it many times, Rose’ and the sun are like peas and carrots. It’s interesting to me how many people love Rose’, but only drink it when it’s warm outside. It makes sense, but at the same time, it doesn’t make sense. Rose’ is such a perfect food wine. It goes with so many different dishes. Seafood, salad, pork, ham, hamburgers, you name it. Yet, for many, if it’s a cloudy, cold day, Rose’ is the last thing on their mind when they are out to purchase a wine. It’s a paradox for sure and one I do not completely understand. I drink Rose’ year-round with the aforementioned foods or simply by itself. I’m just happy the weather is improving, because I have Rose’ all over the place in my department that needs to find a home.
Our trip to Greece (Crete) is on the horizon. Susie has booked the last hotel, and we are getting very excited. I’m so glad to have found a partner in life that loves to travel. Susie is passionate when it comes to understanding where we are going and the ins and outs of the trip. Of course, I’m super stoked to visit some of the wineries in the area. Many people don’t realize just how serious Greeks are about their wines. They are known mostly for the white wine called Retsina. However, this is really not what they should be known for. There are so many other wines from Greece. I carry a few of the many choices from this great wine-producing country at the store and I hope to discover even more over the next few years. Give yourself a chance to explore this part of the wine world, you will not be disappointed.
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
