Lynsy M.
Yelp
It can be intimidating for a wine novice to enter the daunting world of wine; "wine knowledge" is often considered to be mysterious and complicated. And sadly, wine culture has a rather unfair reputation for exclusivity and pretentiousness.
Fortunately, Raleigh Wine Shop actively strives to challenge this negative perception of wine culture by engendering an enthusiastic, nonjudgmental, and friendly atmosphere. It's a place that welcomes and accommodates people of all "wine knowledge" levels -- from the wine novice to the connoisseur and everyone in between.
The social aspects of wine culture can be awkward, too. Tastings can often inspire anxiety. What if you make a faux pas in public? Or, you're not up to snuff in vino jargon? DON'T WORRY! The owners of Raleigh Wine Shop designed the store to encourage exploration and conversation. They are passionate about wine and want to inspire that enthusiasm in you, the customer, by opening the world of wine in a very inviting, open-minded, and kind way.
If you have the opportunity, attend one of their FREE wine tastings on a Saturday afternoon. Each week, they feature a new assortment of wines. ASK QUESTIONS. Engage with the owners and staff. Personally, I am more familiar with craft beer and home-brew making, so I always have questions about wine pairings. Everyone at Raleigh Wine Shop is eager to assist and help you with any questions you may have. They are also truly knowledgeable about global and regional wines and explain each wine in a very friendly, accessible, and relatable way.
Whether you are looking for high-end wines or more affordable options, Raleigh Wine Shop has a diverse selection of wines at different price points. They also offer a select variety of regional provisions from Hillsborough Cheese Company, Farmhand Foods, and OlliSalumeria that pair nicely with the wines in the shop. Raleigh Wine Shop's humble and unpretentious approach to wine along with their expansive wine selection makes this shop a must visit.