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In the state of California it’s not hard to find good wine. From the boutique wine shops to the extensive wine selection you can find in almost any supermarket, it’s everywhere. But that’s California and each state has its own liquor laws. But it doesn’t matter is you are in one of the drier, less wine ample states because there are other ways to partake in the joys of wine and gain a greater appreciation for it. Becoming a member of a winery’s wine club is not only fun (picture this – the doorbell rings and the UPS person is standing there with a box of wine for you), it is also a good opportunity to learn about the different varietals a winery has to offer. Another advantage is that most wine club memberships include discounts on wine sales. And you may also have access to wines not sold anywhere else, especially in the case of small, limited production wineries. For example, Anderson Valley in Mendocino County has several small production wineries that excel in crisp whites and rich pinots that are not readily found in stores. During the summer the winery we belong to has an annual member’s barrel tasting party and you can buy pinot futures before they’re bottled. The member’s party, included not only great food, wine and music, but was also an opportunity to meet other wine lovers and learn more about other wine clubs they partake in. Plus the wine we bought that day is only available through the winery or in select restaurants. If you’re state is not noted for its wine production and you’re considering a wine tasting trip to Northern California, make sure you schedule a reasonable number of stops per day. We like to visit only a couple in a day because it can get overwhelming, and really, how much wine can you taste (especially if you are the designated driver)? If you sign up for a tour and end up visiting too many wineries it can be exhausting. Allowing yourself only a couple of wineries in a day enables you to have a more in depth experience, meet other wine tasters, and perhaps meet the wine maker. Plus the grounds of so many of wineries are special, some are absolutely spectacular and are perfect for having a picnic outdoors, weather permitting. If you have the time and are visiting during off peak hours, you may be able to not just tour the winery but also the vineyards to see firsthand where the wine is produced. Or, if they have them, maybe a wine cave tour. Choosing to visit smaller wineries will also mean getting off the beaten track. And since these are usually much smaller businesses, you may be being served by the wine maker themselves and have a chance to learn why they chose the varietals they did to make a certain blend of wine. And finally, back at home, now that you have boxes of wine arriving several times a year, you may want to consider a wine rack, remembering that it’s best to store wine in a cool (around 55 degrees), dark place. Nice wine glasses, a decanter and a good cork screw are also recommended. You can read more wine cooling systems and wine cooler reviews by visiting www.cellaryourwine.com
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