Where to Buy Wine in Chicago: A Vino Voyage
So, you're in the Windy City and craving a glass of something delightful? Good on you! Chicago is a wine lover's paradise, with a plethora of places to stock up on your favorite grape nectar. Let's dive into the world of wine shopping in this concrete jungle.
Binny's: The Wine Walmart
Let's start with the big daddy of them all, Binny's. It’s like the Walmart of wine, but with better stuff (and hopefully, less chaos). They've got everything from Two Buck Chuck to Chateau Lafite Rothschild. It's a maze of bottles, but if you're patient, you can find some real gems. Just be prepared to spend some quality time there – or hire a personal shopper.
Local Wine Shops: The Boutique Experience
If you prefer a more curated selection, local wine shops are your jam. Places like Printers Row Wine Shop, Verve Wine, and Schaefer's offer a personalized touch and can help you find that perfect bottle for your taste buds. Plus, you might even get to learn something about wine while you're there. Fancy, huh?
Grocery Stores: Convenience is Key
Let’s face it, sometimes you just need a bottle of wine and you need it now. Your friendly neighborhood grocery store can be a lifesaver. While the selection might not be as extensive as a specialty shop, you can usually find something decent to tide you over. Just remember, not all grocery store wines are created equal.
Online Shopping: Wine Delivered to Your Doorstep
If you're the type of person who prefers to do your shopping in pajamas, online wine retailers are a godsend. Websites like Wine.com and Vivino offer a wide variety of wines, often with helpful reviews and ratings. Plus, you can get your wine delivered right to your doorstep. It's like having a personal sommelier who brings the wine to you.
A Few Tips for Wine Buying
- Taste before you buy: Many wine shops offer tastings, so take advantage of them.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Try new wines and grape varieties. You might discover a new favorite.
- Read labels: Pay attention to the region, grape, and vintage.
- Store your wine properly: Keep it cool, dark, and away from vibrations.
How To... Wine Buying FAQs
- How to choose a wine for dinner? Consider the type of food you're serving. Generally, red wines pair well with red meat, while white wines complement seafood.
- How to store wine? Keep your wine in a cool, dark place, ideally at a temperature between 50-59°F. Avoid storing it near heat sources or light.
- How to open a wine bottle without a corkscrew? This one’s a bit tricky, but you can try using a shoe or a book. There are also tools specifically designed for this purpose.
- How to decant wine? Decanting allows oxygen to interact with the wine, which can soften tannins and release aromas. It's typically recommended for older red wines.
- How to pair wine with cheese? Generally, bold red wines pair well with strong cheeses, while lighter whites complement milder cheeses.
So, there you have it, a quick guide to wine buying in Chicago. Now go forth and conquer the world of wine!