Tasting before you buy

Some shops organise free tastings on a regular basis. These can really help you to choose, but beware of wines left open for tasting for many days, as they may have become stale. Some shops and wine societies organise tastings of expensive or rare wines for regular customers or members. You may have to pay to attend, but they are a good way to learn about, for example, mature Burgundies or old vintage ports. If you are planning to collect serious wines, such tastings can be highly educational, directing you towards wines you like and deterring you from wines you don’t, whatever their reputation or price.