A New Day for Wine Drinkers

When we first opened our doors almost 18 years ago, the wine world looked a little different. Customers came in asking for the biggest Cab they could find, usually from California. Big pours, big names, big flavor — that was the story. And don’t get me wrong, we love a good California Cab, but it was almost the only thing people wanted. Fast forward to today, and the conversation has shifted. As a wine buyer, I have found a lot of renewed energy over this new generation of wine drinkers is coming through our door — people who are curious, thoughtful, and open to trying something they’ve never heard of before.

Instead of chasing the flashiest name on the shelf, today’s wine lovers are asking questions like: Was it farmed sustainably? What makes it special? It’s less about having a “cellar full of Cab” and more about enjoying a really well-made bottle with dinner or discovering something new to share with friends. We have seen an increase in requests for natural and organic wine and our selection has admittedly grown in those categories. Like our customers, I have really leaned into focusing on quality and wine that is made a particular way.

We’re seeing so much excitement around wines from regions that used to fly under the radar. A crisp white from Greece, a mineral-driven rosé from Portugal, a light red from the Canary Islands — these are the bottles people are grabbing and coming back for. It’s no longer about sticking to the classics; it’s about the thrill of discovery. This is one of my favorite aspects of wine - being able to experience a sense of place by enjoying a wine from a region that intruiges me.

Another big change? People want wines that align with their values. Organic farming, low-intervention winemaking, sustainable practices — these aren’t just “bonus points” anymore. They matter. Customers are telling us they feel better supporting a vineyard that takes care of its land and community, and we couldn’t agree more. With prices on a consistent hike over the last year, we see customers looking for not only great value, but they want a higher quality product along with that. That is where shopping small and local makes the biggest difference. We make it our job to care about finding the best options for you, no matter what type of wine you enjoy!

This doesn’t mean the classics are going anywhere. But the wine story has widened, and we get to explore more flavors, more styles, more voices. Honestly, it’s never been a more fun time to be in wine. And for us, the best part is getting to share that journey with you. Whether you’ve been drinking wine for decades or you’re just starting to dip your toes in, there’s always something new to discover together.