For many, visiting a wine store is a personal experience where a knowledgeable salesperson, and sometimes, even a sommelier, is there to answer any questions you have about taste, type, food pairings, and more. However, these days it’s also just as easy to buy wine online if you find the right wine seller of course. 

Although it may lack some of that personal experience, a great online wine store will still have all the information you need to make an informed decision, so the Rollers Wine & Spirits team has collected some ways to help you separate the best from the rest here!

Before getting into different selections and pairings, it’s important to understand the logistics of buying wine online. These days, direct-to-consumer (DTC) wine shipments are growing more and more each year due to their convenience. However, many that haven’t yet bought wine or spirits online may be wondering if it’s safe, as well as the logistics that surround the process. In addition to safe packing methods to ensure your wine makes it from point A to point B, some laws require the signature of a person of age to receive it upon arrival. It’s always a good idea to double-check the state-specific regulations regarding alcohol purchases where you live but the process is similar countrywide.

1. Be Wary of Wine Clubs 

First, it’s important to be wary of all the wine clubs online out there that offer prices that can’t be beaten. Usually, when something seems too good to be true it is. Often wine clubs are subscription services to buying programs that will provide sub-par wine and it’s much more difficult to determine their quality upfront. 

2. Choose a Reputable Wine Shop 

Finding a reputable wine shop is the first choice you should make when you buy wine online. Choose to order from a seller with great reviews that boast as many certifications and awards as possible. Additionally, one with the widest selection and in-depth information based on region, taste, etc., is often also a good bet. 

3. Let the Wine You Buy Online Rest Upon Arrival 

Wine gets jetlag too…ok, not really, but it also needs to rest once you’ve received your delivery to let it get back to its optimal tasting state. Certain wines, especially rare ones, can fall victim to what’s known in the industry as “bottle shock” and will require a rest of around two weeks to get back to their optimal state.