How and where to buy wine?

As I have continued to write my articles for the Press I have from time to time gotten the question, "This all sounds great but where should I buy my wine?" Believe me I would like to make the answer simple and at the same time self serving and say "Well, the dinner party of course." The answer however is more complex and far more personal than that. Before we were ever wine shop owners we were passionate wine consumers, which is part of what led Mary and me to open the dinner party. When we were first learning about wine and how and where to buy it we received some great advice; buy 90 percent of your wine from one purveyor. The reason, we were told, is when you do that you will not only receive better pricing but you will also get better allocations of the harder to find really "cool" juice. So the next step is how do you pick your primary source? Taste in wine is a very personal thing, and no matter what anyone writes or tells you about wine the only important thing is whether or not you like it. All the high ratings and high praise cannot change a wine you don't like into one you do. So step number one is to find a wine professional whose palate agrees with yours; you may not like every single recommendation but if you find that you like the lion's share of their recommendations that is your 90 percent place. Next step is, join their wine club if they have one. Most local wine merchants in this area have a club that grants you a bigger discount than you would otherwise receive. It also encourages you to try many different varietals from different producers all of which will expand your wine experience, and help you learn. Your only cautionary note is to beware of a club that is designed more to help the wine shop than you - watch for previous vintages being included too frequently in your club. Also join a club that is right sized for your consumption; if you are an occasional consumer and live alone it does not make sense to join a club that sells you three bottles every month. Also, resist the temptation to join the "red only" or "white only" version of the club. As you drink more wine your palate will evolve and you will find different wines that you like - isn't that the fun of it? Next step is to find a shop that specializes in things you like. Everyone has their favorites, and there is nothing wrong with that, even though you will continue to try new things. Each shop's collection is likely to reflect the tastes of the owner. Going back to the beginning, that is why you will be buying 90 percent of your wine from that See WINE, D8 WINE From D5 one place, so once you find that one go with it. And lastly attend their tastings and events, this will provide you another opportunity to try new things. Whether it is from a tasting, a wine in your club pack, or a bottle recommended by your wine professional, give them feedback. Tell them what you like and especially what you don't, this will help your wine shop do a better job for you with their recommendations in the future. Trust me as wine salesperson; we would all rather have the knowledge. It does not offend us when you don't like a particular wine - that is just part of the job. Finally, if you have budget constraints let us know, our job and our desire are to recommend the right wine at the right price. George Balling is co-owner with his wife Mary Lancaster of the dinner party a wine and table top decor shop in Coeur d'Alene. 208-765-5653 www.thedinnerpartyshop.com.