Wine Buying Online vs Offline: Making the Best Choice

As a lover of wine, I've found myself purchasing bottles from both online platforms and traditional stores. However, the decision for me often comes down to convenience and price.

The Benefits of Buying Wine Online

For those who prefer the convenience and sometimes lower prices of buying wine online, WTSO is a great option. I purchase most of my wines directly from them because I can browse a wide variety of options that are not available locally. Prices are often 30-50% lower than store prices, making it a cost-effective choice. However, there is a downside: I can only see one selection at a time, so the experience isn't as seamless as browsing multiple options in a store.

Overcoming the Challenges of Online Wine Purchasing

The primary challenge of buying a new wine online is the inability to taste it first. To overcome this, it's helpful to have context and clear imagery. A study from eBay found that listings with multiple pictures sell better. Each additional picture increases the likelihood of a sale by 3%, making a more welcoming selling environment.

Convenience and Quality Considerations

When it comes to convenience, in-store shopping is often more appealing. The immediate gratification and ability to taste and select wines on the spot are irreplaceable. However, for quality, online wine purchases can offer a wider selection. For instance, if you're looking for a specific family-run winery that isn't distributed near you, shopping online can be your only option.

A Great Option for Online Wine Buying

Dry Farm Wines is a standout choice for those who buy wine online. They understand the needs of those following a ketogenic diet, making sure their wines are pure and won't kick you out of ketosis. Most other wines contain added sugars that aren't properly fermented, which can be a concern for those on specific diets.

Purchase Challenges and Tips

While online wine purchases can be convenient, there are drawbacks. For instance, in many states, wine must be signed for by an adult, and sometimes specifically by the person who ordered it. This means you often have to be home to receive your wine package, unlike the easy Amazon deliveries. Some people might suggest leaving it at your office, but in my case, my office is my work truck, which makes it impossible.

In addition, online purchases can be more expensive. If you want to buy a Zinfandel for $20 from Klinker Brick, one of my favorites, and you buy it online, you not only have to be home when it's delivered but also pay extra for shipping. So, you end up paying $30 for a $20 wine and the inconvenience of having to be home when it arrives.

For some, the cost and inconvenience may be worth it, especially for unique, hard-to-find wines. In my case, I am fortunate to live in California, where grocery stores offer a vast selection of great wines to choose from, with many fun things I haven't tried. However, the decision ultimately comes down to how I make my choice: as a gambler, I'm willing to try anything new, sometimes with success and sometimes with regret.

Conclusion

Deciding between buying wine online or offline largely depends on personal preferences and specific needs. Whether you're looking for convenience, lower prices, or a wider selection, both methods have their advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make the best choice for your wine purchasing needs.