Jungle Jim’s International Market, Fairfield, Ohio, simplifies the wine-buying process by organizing certain selections by value and quality.
One display features wines that sell for less than $10; another, under $20. All selections have been tasted by Jungle Jim’s staff for quality.
A lot of times, people don’t want to spend more than $10, but don’t know if the wine will be any good. The displays give them confidence with their purchase, said Ed Vincent, the retailer’s beer and wine department operation manager.
“These are wines that over-deliver,” Vincent told SN. “They provide a bang for the buck.”
The retailer also has a “Critic’s Choice” section that features 90-plus rated wines that sell for $30 or less.
Additionally, rotating displays feature wine brands that cater to specific holidays or seasons.
For Halloween, for instance, the display held such brands as Vampire, Skeleton and Witch’s brew.
The retailer helps shoppers make wine purchases in other ways. Throughout the year, it hosts in-store wine tastings and seminars about store-recommended wines.
For instance, in March 2015, the retailer’s wine buyers will discuss their Top 10 wines of the year. Attendees will then vote on their favorite. Tickets cost $30 each.
And in April, Jungle Jim’s wine director Dave Schmerr will discuss and sample his 10 favorite wines from the last year.
“Of course, Bordeaux and Reds will be there, but be surprised if he throws you a curveball with some of his choices,” promotional materials read. Tickets cost $30 each.
Jungle Jim’s also educates wine buyers about the traits of different wine-grape growing regions. For instance, in January, it will have a seminar on wines from Oregon.
And in April, it will host Tuscany's Top Ten Wine Districts. “Italy's most famous wine region will be explored in depth as we search the hills and valleys for some of the best wines we've ever tasted,” promotional materials read.
In other beverage alcohol news, Jungle Jim’s will host its first-ever whiskey expo on Feb. 20, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the retailer’s Oscar Event Center. The “Whiskey Trail” will showcase eight distilleries, including Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark. Distillery representatives will pour half-ounce tastings.
“Take your time at each stop and learn as much as possible from the experts at each location,” Jungle Jim’s writes in promotional materials.
The event will also include food stations featuring whiskey-inspired food, as well as several 30-minute whiskey seminars. Tickets cost $50.
After the event, signature cocktails featuring each Whiskey Trail brand will be prepared in the retailer’s Oscar Event Center Pub. Ticket holders are entitled to one free signature cocktail.
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