One of my friends asked me what I thought of wine clubs the other day and it got me to thinking. How many of my other friends do not know how wine clubs work? So, I thought I would take time this month to explain how they work and offer up some tips.
Most wineries have a wine club that provides consumers the opportunity to sign-up to receive monthly or quarterly shipments. Usually, there is no charge for joining the club and you can drop at any time. Not a bad deal. Most wineries produce limited bottlings that they offer only to their wine club members, which means that if you like one of their particular wines, it may be the only way to purchase it.
Wine club members usually receive a 10-20% discount on their purchases, which makes up for the shipping costs. However, like I said, many of the wines can only be purchased through the wine club. Wine club members are usually privileged to special tastings and events when visiting the winery and also qualify for discounts on regular purchases.
Wine clubs are a great deal and I belong to several. However, before you sign-up, I suggest that you go on-line and read the rules (usually shown as wine club benefits) for the particular wineries that you have an interest. When visiting a winery, don't be shy, tell them right away that you are looking to join a wine club. Let them explain the details of their club (and evaluate their wines of course), so you have a clear understanding of how their club works. For example, some wineries offer one membership for club members that like both white and red wines and mix their shipments. They may also offer another membership that ships only red wines. So, depending on your taste, you choose which type of membership best suits you.
Once you have decided on what type of membership and at the point you sign up, you will be required to give them your credit card information. Most clubs automatically ship on their schedule (monthly, quarterly, etc.) and bill the credit card you have on file. Make sure you keep your information updated if you don't want your shipments interrupted. You also have the option of canceling your membership at any time.
While most wineries don't charge for joining their wine clubs, be careful you don't sign up for so many that your credit card bill resembles the national debt. Be selective, but don't be afraid to try out different clubs. You can always drop after a couple of shipments and try another. I have a few clubs I consider my core (those I intend to keep forever) and then others I might try for a few months and switch out. |
