Happy New Year!
As we settle into the new year, many of us are still facing the challenges of the cost of living crisis. January is a often a tough month anyway, with holiday bills piling up (and hangovers kicking in!) and resolutions urging us towards frugality and healthy living after the indulgence of the festive season! However, all of this doesn't mean we have to sacrifice entirely the small pleasures in life. If you're a wine lover, it’s easier than you might think to continue enjoying good quality wine without busting your budget. That’s what we’re here to help you do!
First, it's important to note that high price doesn't always equate to high quality when it comes to wine. While it can be true that you might get a better price-quality balance if you spend a little more on wine, as the price continues going up you will often actually get increasingly diminishing returns in terms of value. There are plenty of affordable options out there that can deliver a satisfying taste experience.
Savvy shopping
One strategy for wine shopping on a budget is to explore lesser-known regions or grape varieties. These wines will often come at a lower price point compared to their more famous counterparts. For example, our Perez Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva from Chile is a great alternative to Bordeaux or Napa Valley. If you love Pinot Noir, try the Pepe Porter Mencía. Less ‘heralded’ regions such as Portugal, Greece or even North Macedonia can offer delicious wines that don’t cost the earth.
Another good tip is to look for wines from previous vintages, commonly known as 'bin ends'. When winemakers release new wines, older bottles get marked down to make space for the newcomers. Wine merchants often do the same when rotating their stock and bringing new products in (we sure do!). These discounted wines can offer great value for money while still maintaining a high level of quality. Be open-minded and adventurous; you might discover hidden gems while saving some cash.
Don’t get promo FOMO
You could also consider signing up for subscription services. It may seem counter-intuitive, but the Wee Vinoteca’s fantastic wine subscription offers curated selections at discounted prices, featuring unique wines tailored to your tastes. You can broaden your palate, explore new styles and enjoy an excellent bottle of wine while staying within your budget. Not only that, but it works for you: there’s no contract, you can pause at any time, and it gets you 10% off when you shop with us. Right now you can even get 80% off your first case when you sign up in-store!
On that note, don’t forget to take advantage of sales, promotions and discounts offered by local wine shops like us. Special deals are not uncommon in January as it’s a traditionally difficult spending month. Sign up for newsletters or follow your favourite wine shops on social media to stay informed about upcoming promotions.
Don’t despair! The twin ravages of the cost of living crisis and January being… well, January don’t need to preclude you from enjoying your favourite beverage! By being resourceful, exploring and shopping smart, it’s more than possible to find good quality, good value wines without breaking the bank. Above all, the best way to find good value is to visit independent wine vendors like us and talk to our experts; we're here to help! Remember, great wines are within reach, whatever your budget. Cheers to that!