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Own a Wine Collection Without Breaking the Bank

drinks

By Victoria M.

- Aug 29, 2024

In the routine of life, many of us acquire wine spontaneously. We might indulge in a bottle or two during our weekly grocery shopping or perhaps gather a few from the winery during an impromptu visit. While there's nothing wrong with this makeshift buying pattern, consider a more economical solution: formulate a home wine collection. Comprise a personalized case of 12 wine bottles, continuously replenished as required, ready for any occasion – be it cozy weeknight dinners, grand celebrations, or impromptu visits by friends.

Having a well-stocked wine supply at home ensures that you are never in a rush to acquire an emergency bottle. You may even bag a handsome discount - often up to 15% - when purchasing a complete case of wine. It's crucial, however, to remember the importance of storage temperature. A wine refrigerator or cellar provides the perfect backdrop, with an internal closet as the next best option. The worst offenders are areas with high temperature, like your kitchen.

Following are some wine editor-approved strategies to amass a versatile collection of prime wines that will not only equip you for any situation but also enable you to save some dollars at the same time.

Having a passion for burgers, craving a steak, or simply wanting a fine glass of red wine? You'll likely use these bottles quite often, so maintain a steady stock. Whether you want a Cabernet, a Chianti, or an Aussie Shiraz, select according to your preference. Nonetheless, if you savour robust reds, Marietta Old Vine Red ($17) is consistently a bargain.

An everyday white is just that, an ordinary, mid-week, unwinding post-work bottle that you can relish without second thoughts. For some, a Pinot Grigio suffices; for others, it's a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. However, the crisp Rodney Strong Charlotte's Home Sauvignon Blanc ($18) is a compelling contender.

Keeping inexpensive bubbly on hand elevates life's pleasures, especially without worrying about each drink's cost. Pursue value-for-money options like Cava, Spanish sparkling wine. The Naveran Cava Brut ($20) is highly recommended.

Sometimes, you need to impress – perhaps yourself included. White Burgundies often rank as the finest white wines available and age well. For an opulent option, consider the layered Joseph Drouhin Côte de Beaune Blanc ($60).

For grand celebrations, genuine Champagne is indeed the correct choice. Avoid unnecessary trips to the store and keep a bottle of something sublime, like Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut ($79), in your stash.

At times, a glass of good sweet wine perfectly suits the moment. Keep a supply on hand to avoid any disappointment. The Italian Vin santo, like the elegant Castello di Monsanto La Chimera ($50), is a delightful late-night treat.

Ensure you've stock for rosé for that one friend who absolutely loves it. Good rosé isn't churned out equally, so don't hesitate to splurge slightly on a quality bottle from Provence. Trust me, a bottle of Château Minuty M de Minuty ($23) will be a hit.

Sometimes emergencies arise, like your boss making an impromptu visit or a last-minute dinner party where you forgot to pick up wine. Having a superior red wine in these circumstances is a godsend. Why not a Bordeaux? You can't go wrong with a bottle of Château Bourgneuf ($65) from Pomerol.