Broke Oenophile

Two-buck-chuck collection

 As a graduate student, it is easy to go over budget with fermented grape juice. Many are on the same boat but want to experience wine nonetheless. Here is how to.

What to do 

1) Set a fix budget for Wine spending and stick to it.
I set mine at $100. It might seem a lot for those on budget but to a wine collector, $100 cannot get you much (Certainly not one of these!). Personally, I have my eyes on lesser known varietals (for Quest list!) which tend to be cheaper.

2) Go for tastings
Select those that are reasonably priced and have decent bottles available. In other words, do the research and math before you go! This way, you can taste a variety for the price of a bottle and have an outing with your friends! For those in San Diego, you might be interested in this! Or this!

3) Have tastings with friends
Get everyone to bring a bottle of wine and do blind tasting. It is not only fun, it saves you some cash too!

4) Keep a lookout for good deals
Build a good relationship with your local wine store so that whenever there are great deals, you are one of the first to find out! For San Diego, I recommend San Diego Wine Co or Vintage Wines for good prices. Or Costco! I found this in their discount bin at WineSteals!

5) Be on the lookout for cheap decent wine
There are plenty out there that are as good as those that cost more. Do not burn your pocket with expensive wine. Do your research before getting anything unless it is reasonable to pick up. Here is an article on Wall Street Journal for notable well priced wines. Also, there are always decent box wines for everyday consumption! Here is one I enjoy!

Here is a an example of spending in a month:
East County Vintners meeting FREE (Plenty of good vino too!)
Winetasting party $10
$2 or $5 tastings at Vintage 
$10 tastings at SD Wine co.
Tastings at local Wineries $10 (Choose the ones that lets you keep their glass!)
 Get a bottle for dinner. $10
Wine event $15 (Iron horse!)
Get another bottle for dinner $10 (Trader Joes' have good prices- like this one I got! Or this!)
Yet another bottle for dinner $10

What NOT to do. 

1) Blow on an expensive bottle
It offsets your budget and you are likely unable to drink that bottle anytime soon. If you do not have money for that kind of wine now, it is alright. Be patient and hold off. There are plenty of inexpensive wines to enjoy! 

2) Don't trust ratings, trust your own taste buds.
High rating wines does not mean it will taste good to you. Usually they have a high price tag with them too. Figure out what you like and explore a variety!

Take home, do your work before you buy!