What Makes a Wine Club Worth It?
Wine is the perfect companion for a variety of social events and even a peaceful evening at home. However, purchasing bottles regularly from specialty stores can quickly become expensive. If you're looking for a way to enjoy more wine without breaking the bank, joining a wine club might be the ideal solution for you.
What Is a Wine Club?
A wine club is a participation or membership program designed for wine enthusiasts to gain access to a wide range of wines from vineyards and shops. These clubs typically send you a shipment of wine every quarter or year in exchange for an enrollment fee. Let's explore what makes a wine club stand out.
The Best Benefit of a Wine Club
The primary advantage of a wine club is the ability to try a variety of wines that you wouldn't normally choose on your own. Many people who frequent wine stores tend to stick with the same types of wine time and time again, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Cabernet. However, a wine club offers you a chance to explore different wines from around the world.
Wine clubs can open your eyes to a whole new world of flavors. For instance, a wine of the same varietal you're already familiar with might taste significantly different when coming from a different region or country. This diversity allows you to discover your next favorite wine, often one that you wouldn't have purchased off the store shelf simply because you discovered it through the club.
Personal Experiences with Wine Clubs
I have been a member of wine clubs from three different California wineries. Each club offers unique benefits and experiences. Here are some of my experiences:
Small Winery Wine Club
One of the clubs I joined is a small winery where nearly 100% of their wines are sold exclusively to club members. It took me three years to get on their waiting list, and once I was eligible, I could purchase their wines when they were released. For almost a decade, I could enjoy purchasing 1-2 cases of exquisite Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer wines at reasonable prices. Had I not been on their list, I would have missed out on this incredible opportunity.
Medium-Sized Pinot Noir Winery
The second club focuses on producing Pinot Noir, a delicate grape that can vary significantly in quality. This winery made small quantities of exceptional wine from about 10 different micro vineyards, all of which were predominantly sold to club members. The twice-yearly special tasting evenings were always delightful additions to my wine experience.
Discount Wine Club
My third club is a medium-sized winery that offers substantial discounts on their less popular wines, up to 70-75% off the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). I enjoy the style they produce, and I've consistently found good wines for about $10 a bottle through the club.
Will a Wine Club Be Worth the Effort?
If you are truly passionate about a particular winery and want to ensure that you consistently receive their wines, a club can be a great investment. Most wine club memberships require no initial fee and only ask you to purchase some of their products annually or biannually. The cost of joining often pays for itself through discounts, special events, and access to limited edition wines. However, you should ensure that you genuinely enjoy the offerings of the winery, as there are numerous choices available in the market.
Joining a wine club can provide you with the opportunity to explore a wide range of wines, discover new favorites, and save money in the process. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a beginner, a wine club can be a valuable resource for enhancing your wine tasting experience.