Hey there, Cola, Lauren here. I’m a huge wine fan, but when it comes to picking out a bottle, I tend to stick to what I know. My thought: Why risk not enjoying something new when I can buy what I know I like?

Palmetto Wine Sellers, a local wine shop at 2218 Devine St. (about a block up from Baan Sawan) – and its owner, Rocky Menge – gives both curious + serious wine-buyers the opportunity to taste before they buy. Meaning buying a new bottle doesn’t have to be a shot in the dark (or require research from multiple wine rating sites). I tried it out and found a great new cab that’s well within my budget. Here’s how it works + why you should #TryThis.

The tasting room at Palmetto Wine Sellers

Experience:

Wine tasting at Palmetto Wine Sellers

What we tried (with pricing):

I called ahead and scheduled a tasting with Rocky on a Wednesday afternoon. When I showed up, he greeted me at the door + took me to the tasting room. We were the only ones there, so I was very comfortable in this time of social distancing.

Rocky had two red and two whites picked out for me to try – a 2018 Piattelli Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016 Atanea Pinot Noir, an Eira Dos Mouros Ribeiro and a 2015 Lagar De Darei Dão. Everything I tried was very affordable; each of the bottles ranged between $18-25.

Note: Prices will vary based on wine selections + group size. Call the shop for details.

Don't miss:

If red wine is your go-to or you like a full-bodied glass, don’t miss trying the 2018 Piattelli Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. This Argentinian red was my personal favorite of the four wines I tried + comes at $18.75 a bottle.

What we’re still talking about:

Rocky has over 50 wines available for tasting – from everyday favorites to rare bottles. Each bottle has been personally curated + chosen by Rocky himself.

Rocky has maps of different wine regions throughout the world.

During the entire experience, I was amazed at Rocky’s knowledge of wine. The stockbroker-turned-“wine guy” told me about the grape varietals used in the wines we tasted, and which wines pair best with different foods. I walked out a little bit smarter + a whole lot more interested in wine.

How you can experience this:

While reservations aren’t required, Rocky recommends that anyone interested in a wine tasting should at least call ahead to ensure he’ll be around. To reach out or schedule a tasting, email Rocky or call Palmetto Wine Sellers at (803) 714-3320.

Things to know if you go:

Experience: Wine tasting at Palmetto Wine Sellers
Price: Varies based on group size + wine selection; call for details
Website: https://palmettowinesellers.com/
Address: 2218 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29205
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Social: Facebook | Instagram

Ⓟ