06/24/08 Wine Clubs

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran and today on our show we are going to discuss Wines Clubs. Wine clubs have been around for several years now and they work on the premise that the provider, usually the winery, will send you new and interesting wines every month or quarter or several times annually. It is a creative way to market and sell wines. There are often differing choices indicating how many wines you wish to have sent at each shipment. Clubs vary in methods of bringing wine to you. Some clubs focus on one kind and ship several bottles of the same wine - If you don't like the first bottle, it's too bad  you are stuck with the remaining bottles. Be certain you are a fan of the style and types of wines produced before you make the commitment. Another type of club will send you several different wines. I like this! It is nice for folks who don't have the time or don't like the pressure of picking out unknown wines for themselves. It's also fun! The hope is that you will try the wines and order more of the ones that you enjoyed most, often at a discount offered only to club members. You may also have the option of joining at a higher level to receive special releases and reserve wines not always available outside of the winery. You can usually join the club at the winery when you visit and taste or you can go on-line and sign up. Check into the parameters of wine clubs from your favorite wineries and if they suit you read the small print carefully and then sign on for the one that best suits your needs. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.