Italian Wine Merchants
New York, NY 10003
Phone: (212) 473-2323
- Cross Street:
- Between Park Avenue S and Irving Place
- Directions:
- L; N, Q; R, W; 4, 5, 6 at 14th St-Union Sq
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat 11am-7pm
Editorial Review for Italian Wine Merchants – by Citysearch Staff
Overview
Nestled on a quiet block on Union Square, it's easily one of the most alluring and justifiably appointed wine stores in the city. The floors are covered with antique Persian rugs, and the dark brick walls are handsomely lit with vintage chandeliers. In order to ensure the perfect temperature and storage of every bottle carried, you'll only see one of each on the shelves.
The Appeal
At a wine store partly owned by Mario Batali, it's hardly surprising that all of the stock comes from Italy. Catering to wine enthusiasts and collectors alike, the broad range of wines (and prices) is staggering. But the staff is more than happy to help you find something affordable. In the store's cozy Vintage Tasting Room and the larger Studio del Gusto, which accommodate 8 and 75 guests respectively, private wine tastings are held.
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Insider Tips
When to GoTastings happen on Saturday afternoons--call ahead for the schedule.
The ExtrasThe Exploration Club sends three wines to your door each month ($344.95 for three months).
User Reviews for Italian Wine Merchants
12/12/2006 Posted by smittysmoov
These guys are just not nice! They keep the good stuff for themselves and make fun of people. I've seen them in action. Giving each other looks and giggling when they sell bad wine. Although eventually I did leave with an amazing Barolo it took so long to accomplish and I felt like the service was not willing. Whatever I would totally go back but am not impressed. Lucky for me I know a thing or two
Pros: Decor/back vintages
Cons: Condescending service
12/09/2006 Posted by ms_hayley
So when I walk into a retail store, I generally do not expect to have to pass any sort of test in order to be deemed worthy enough to purchase things. I may not be a sommelier, but I know more than Joe Shmoe, and I don't appreciate being spoken to like an idiot and then given wines to suit my apparent lack of intellect. Oh - the corkscrew display is pretty, though. Go for the corkscrews (though who knows, they might make you demonstrate the proper bottle-opening procedure before letting you walk out with one.)
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