Think Twice Before Purchasing Wine At The Grocery Store

Let's clear the air: there is nothing inherently wrong with grocery store wine. Just know you might not fall in love with the big brands that line the shelves, as they can be easily found anywhere that sells wine. Oftentimes, wine aficionados conclude that such wines provide a solid, but not exceptional experience. The storage conditions of the wine bottles may well share the blame for this, as higher storage temperatures, vertical orientation of the wine bottles, and extensive exposure to bright lights – all potential features of grocery store wine displays — could have negative effects on the flavor and aroma of the wine itself. Luckily, high-quality local wine shops or liquor stores tend to avoid these common wine storage mistakes. 

So, instead of tossing a bottle into your shopping cart alongside your eggs and milk, consider adding a visit to your local wine shop to your agenda. While grocery stores are a boon for shoppers who already know what they are looking for, they might not be ideal shoppers new to wine. Visiting a wine shop and speaking with experts is the best way to get familiar with the world of wine, while also supporting local businesses and smaller wine producers in the midst of a landscape that's downright flooded with big-name brands and labels.

While the shelves of wine stores might seem overwhelming at first, asking a wine expert for guidance will put you at ease. A friendly sommelier will happily flit through the plethora of brands, labels, and languages housed on the shelves, perhaps explaining details like the difference between old and new world wines as they do so. It's ideally all in the name of finding a wine that matches your preferences. 

The best of these guides are eager to share their passion for and knowledge of wine with anyone who walks through the front doors. However, if your sommelier seems more concerned with making a profit than finding the best wine for your needs, don't be afraid to walk right back out that door. A good wine store is invested in making a connection with the customer, resulting in a relationship that can last for years.

With the help of a sommelier, you can steadily gain familiarity with the various flavors, aromas, and finishes that make each wine unique while learning how to expertly pair wine with pizzas and other dishes. The shelves of wine stores are usually stocked with vintages from many smaller producers, ensuring there are options for every occasion. Once you dive into the world of wine, it also becomes easier to determine whether you should settle for grocery store wine or visit your local sommelier for guidance.