Whine of the Month : September 2007

Well, it’s official. The end of civilization is just around the corner. How do I know this? I’ve recently discovered that Costco Warehouse stores sell Beringer White Zinfandel BY THE SIX PACK!! Additionally, you should see the rate at which it flies off the shelves. Truly breathtaking.

But wait you say, how would a snobby wine geek like Harry know that? I’m glad you asked. Because I’m apparently on the downside of what has been a generally lackluster music career, coupled with the fact that I’ve recently rented a house that’s 40% more expensive than my last humble abode, I’ve taken another job in the wine biz. Oh no, you gasp, “Last time you tried that, you had that cushy job in Malibu selling wine to movie stars and it still drove you crazy. Why should it be any different this time?”

This time, I may have simply walked into the most perfect, tailor made position imaginable. It’s easy, flexible, lucrative and I have the kind of autonomy and freedom from authority figures that my cantankerous disposition requires. The worst part (aside from actually having to show up and work in the real world), is that it’s a little boring, but not nearly as much so as the Malibu store.

What is this dream job? Frankly, when I tell you, it’s not going to sound all that hot, and perhaps even a bit embarrassing, but I’m selling wine at Costco three days a week. How's that for glamorous? Hence my knowledge about the white Zin. Now don’t get me wrong, I ain’t selling crap, and I ain’t working for Costco. Got it?

I’m working for a modern day American wine trader in the model of the great Burgundian negociants. His name is Cameron Hughes and he finds single lots of super-high quality finished wine, cellars it, bottles it and releases it in limited case lots exclusively through his web site and Costco.

The wines are stunning in both quality and value. You know how I always say that buying $40 wine is a sucker’s game? Well this guy proves it by selling $40 wine for the $12 it should really cost. Perfectly in keeping with the philosophy of the CWC. People get great wine that I’m genuinely enthused about, and there’s no hype or lying or obfuscation. Cool, huh?

I have tons to say about the day to day experiences of dealing with the general (read “not wine literate” public), but I will save that for subsequent columns. No use using up all that good material in one sitting, eh?

In the meantime, visit Cameron’s web site at www.chwine.com and stop by the store for a bottle or two. Good stuff. Have I ever lied to you...?

Harry “Workin’ For The Weekend” Orlove