04/04/05 Monday question - Wine merchants

Welcome to Vine to Wine, I'm your host Linda Moran and today we are answering questions from our email. A listener from writes " On your programs you recommend befriending our local wine merchants. I am finding this very difficult as the person in our local wine shop seems to be quite a snob and I find him very condescending. What should I do?" Oh my you are breaking my heart! But, we will attempt to answer this question, after the break. The snobby condescending wine merchant is an unfortunate occurrence. To me there is no place for snobbery when it comes to wine. Although, wine is a beverage, that at times benefits from some explanation. I think a good wine merchant recognizes that his or her business will grow if they are gracious and generous with their knowledge. It builds loyal customers and a bright future. If your wine merchant does not get it, then move on, and find someone who is cordial and willing to help you. Depending upon the size of your community there may be more than one wine shop to choose from. Even if it is not conveniently located, perhaps you will hit it off, at one of the other shops. Try your local grocery store, there is often a wine specialist or someone who has access to wine information working there. And do not overlook your favorite restaurant - often the person in charge of the wine program is happy to spend a few minutes making some recommendations for you. The internet is also a great tool for investigating new wine trends and recommendations. You may just find an online wine merchant that you like. 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.