Issue Date: December 31, 2006

News & Views

Buying wine?

An expert author shares tips.

By Sarah Beth Clark

Wine is enjoying unprecedented popularity these days, thanks in part to a wave of creatively packaged and economically priced offerings. Media reports about wine's health benefits haven't hurt either. With quality wines available for around $10 a bottle, "it's more affordable than ever," says Leslie Sbrocco, author of a recent book, "The Simple & Savvy Wine Guide: Buying, Pairing and Sharing for All" (Morrow Cookbooks, $14.95).

Wine makes an elegant yet affordable gift, paired with a decorative bottle stopper, nuts or cocktail-ready fresh juices. "Look for a good value ($8 to $20) wine, but then dress it up," Sbrocco advises. More wine-giving tips:

Ask an expert. "You can trust a good retailer," Sbrocco says. In addition to a familiar red, like an Australian shiraz, or the popular white California chardonnay, try a Malbec from Argentina or a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, all in the $10 range. Or, choose one of the increasingly affordable bubblies, like a Spanish Cava or an Italian Prosecco for under $20 a bottle.

Buy in bulk. Often, wine shops will give discounts on six bottles or a case (12 bottles).

Experiment. Pick up a couple of bottles you think might make good gifts and try them. If they pass your taste test, go back and buy more to give away.

Look at labels. Some people buy a bottle of wine because they like its label. For a personal touch, you can design and customize a wine label online, including those from Signature Wines (signaturewines.com) or Windsor Vineyards (windsorvineyards.com). Check to see if wine can be shipped to your state.

Ultimately, no matter what you pick, wine should be fun, Sbrocco says.