Some Prices are Starting to Going Up
If you haven’t noticed, prices continue to creep upward. A quick trip to the mall for a sale will have you asking, “This is on sale? This is the same price it was a few months ago!”
Price increases are most noticeable at the grocery store. Coffee, eggs, bread and produce are at least 10% higher than they were last year at this time.
Wine price increases haven’t gone unnoticed by this consumer. We had a nice drop in wine prices for the past 6 months, but they’ve stopped dropping and, in some cases, are starting to edge upward.
There are several reasons. Because of the loss of jobs, or fear of losing one’s job, consumers are buying less expensive wines. Twisting Vines talked about this in February.
Here in California, and to a lesser extent, Oregon and Washington, it’s starting to take it’s toll. Many newer winemakers and growers purchased land at inflated prices, and unless they have unlimited funds, can’t keep up with expense of producing wine.
Some have gone out of business already. Some are frantically working to downsize and streamline operations. Some are raising prices. There will reach a point where wine drinkers will decide that they would rather switch to a less expensive wine or simply drink less often.
Here at Twisting Vines we will continue to search for those “diamonds in the rough” wines – so you won’t have to.
2 Great Value Wines
Saint Clair Family Estate Vicar’s Choice Pinot Noir 2008
From New Zealand’s Marlborough region. Bright ruby color. Aromas of raspberry, strawberry and red cherry. Medium-bodied. Well-balanced acidity, supple tannins. Cherry and raspberry dominate the palate with hints of red currant. A smooth, long finish. Pairs well with red meat or pasta. At Wine Exchange for $12
2008 Pascual Toso Malbec Maipu Valley
From Argentina. Dark ruby color. Aromas of ripe plums, wet stones and a hint of toast. Flavors of dark cherries and berries with a hint of pepper. Full bodied. Acid balanced with ripe tannins. Drink now or hold 2 or 3 years. Perfect pairing with a cheeseburger! At K & L for $10
Tags: malbec, pinot noir, value
