By Dani
I have a confession: I AM REALLY BAD AT WINE. I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm GREAT at drinking it, but I don't really have any idea what I like until I taste it. I've never learned to WALK AWAY from the lousy five dollar bottles and I always regret it, and I kind of have some angst about all of this, as this opening lead indicates.
Anyway. I finally got tired of buying whatever crummy wine was on sale at the Super Saver Grocery Land, and then not liking it and using it to braise chicken instead of enjoying it in a glass like a civilized person, and I discovered San Clemente Wine Company.
I'm telling you, this little wine shop has changed my life. They specialize in really great wines for under $20, and they give super advice on the right wine for any occasion. The staff is very friendly, the store itself is small enough that you can actually find something without getting a calf-cramp or an anxiety attack (BevMo, I'm looking at you), and they even serve tastings (with cheese! bonus!) on a regular basis.
I love having the confidence to bring a really great wine to a dinner party or as a hostess gift, and knowing that if I pop the cork on a bottle I will get to enjoy it instead of taking one sip and rootingaround for a Diet Coke instead. If you're ever in South Orange County, you need to check this place out!
Where do you shop for wine? Do you have any tips on what to ask for and how to buy what you like?
If only the grocery stores in my state were allowed to sell wine... I have to go to a beer and wine store to buy wine or go out of state.
Posted by: Kay | January 12, 2012 at 07:29 AM