Wine Purchasing
Be A More Effective Wine Purchaser
Wine Purchasing is a very big step in wine list building. Most states regulations on alcohol purchasing are different. Some make retailers show a minimum markup of 33 percent, others you can only purchase through the state. Wine and beer are all together different also. Check with your local liquor control board for direction.
Purchasing wines to place on your list is done only after careful consideration. In building a strong wine list it is important to buy wines that are ready to drink now but also to build up a storage of wines that will be added at a later date. The key to getting the wines you really want is to form a good relationship with your wine vendors. Most wine vendors are issued an allocation of the really sought after wines from the wineries.
Established restaurants are usually offered these wines first, restaurants with a history of purchasing the wines when they become available. Try to get on the list, purchase what your budget allows and look for better values in wines to help round out your list. Consider building tiers in you categories based on sell price.
You need to make sure you offer options for guests from low to high. Try to develop your list according to the most popular varietals in your area. Most vendors can supply you with information about the most popular varietals and consider long term availability of those wines before placing them if you plan on not changing often.
Create a budget for wine purchases that you can afford. Building depth in a wine list can be a very expensive endeavor. Keep in mind the amount of premium, top tier, middle and value wines you will need to create your list and maintain it. Try not to load up on high end wines that deplete your budget quickly. Resist the temptations and use good, sound judgment.
Purchasing some wines in quantity while they are on special is a good way to increase your margins on these wines to sell at regular mark-up once the price goes back up! Most vendors put specific wines on special throughout the year so ask them what may be coming down the road. Optimize your dollars and you will become even more profitable.
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