A list price of $42. And I paid $20—and it’s not a fluke, I do it all the time. In fact, the blog would be very different, certainly more linear, if it weren’t for this kind of buying ability. Actually, this source is so good, it makes walking into a retail outfit and purchasing fine wine very difficult. It’s also not a secret, and I’ve referenced it countless times on the blog alone. I tell almost anybody who’ll listen, but there it ends; I’m still waiting on the participation. It’s WineBid.com.
WineBid is an auction site, very much like eBay, but much more fun—mainly because I rarely have to bid against anybody. Succeeding at solo auctions is a breeze. Of course there are wines that multiple people go buck wild over, but I just go after something else—there are thousands of bottles. The bidding platform is easy, and the site is beautifully conceived. Bidding starts on Sunday night around 9:00 pm and closes the follow Sunday night at 8:00 pm. There is nothing else to it. Pluck deeply discounted bottles all day long. I never spend more than $20 or $25 per wine, which often range from $30 to $55 list, and I have never received a bad bottle.
Wine Review: 2005 · Hartley Ostini · Hitching Post · Highliner · Pinot Noir · Santa Barbara County, CA:
Fully transparent ruby and brick tones. Bright, but not polished, a slight cloudiness breaks the gleam, a sign of natural winemaking.
The nose offers a sweeping range of earth notes. Barnyard, burnt match and tobacco hovers over layers of sweet red strawberries, cherries, and tart tea. Rejoicingly unique, wound with old-world farm funk, brave, food-friendly acidity, layers of spice, and pleasing textures. Brainteaser-like complexity.
It’s no wonder Paul Giamatti hates Merlot—yes, that was a Sideways/Hitching Post reference. I feel cheap.
[Wild rice a la Carey]
[Beef stew a la Rob]
So, about the giveaway! The first person who purchases a bottle of wine from WineBid.com, consumes it, and tells me about it in the comment section of this post receives a handmade vintage journal of my choice (just like mine, featured here) from The Fancy Lamb. You, your wine choice, and your new tasting journal will be featured in a post.
I’m not expecting any shadiness from our readers, but I may ask for a picture of the WineBid.com inspection label on the back of the bottle. Mmhmm!
Enjoy!
-Rob.
But…
doesn’t the cost of shipping of your winnings negate any savings?
I should have gone over that. For the most part, it’s not even close. For instance, the wine I discussed lists for $42. I paid $20 for the bottle and just under $8 for shipping. The shipping bill was about $16 for 2 bottles—the more you consolidate, the more you save on shipping. For instance, a case of ships at under $5 per bottle.
An important consideration is that this is not a source for everyday wine. A large percentage of my fine wine comes through here, but its minimal in terms of the total wine I buy. $28 is still much more than I usually pay for wine, so when I do, maximizing quality is key. You also should research your picks and find out what it’s listing for and make sure it’s worth it, there isn’t a formula for setting starting bids. Some deals are better than others.
The last thing I’ll comment on has to do with availability. WIneBid digs up tremendous stuff. Much of what I buy, I couldn’t find anyway. So for a wine nerd, it’s a serious perk.
Love your site! Was looking for a “bicycle + champagne” photo and your site came up in the search results. Borrowing the image, but linking back to your site for all credits! We just canceled our “wine o’ the month” club, so we’ll be checking out WineBid.
That’s great! I think I’ve cancelled 3 wine clubs in the last year, instead focusing more on WineBid. It certainly gives me an opportunity to expand my palate. Stay in touch! -Rob
Not. Cool. WineBid won’t ship to Massachusetts. I’m super bummed! I was bidding on an ’02 Merry Edwards Pinot Noir.
Oh boo! I forgot about that! I tried to send a wine gift to Mass once and got denied. Ridiculous! Good call on the ’02 Merry Edwards—you are a Pinot baller for sure.
My very first giveaway, and it discriminates! Oops.