Wine Expo is about one thing, amazing wines at low prices. You will not be impressed with the fading “Champagne World Headquarters” sign on Santa Monica Blvd. You may be suspicious at the lack of proper shelving inside, the proprietors have eschewed them in favor of stacked boxes with just enough room to shimmy down the makeshift aisles.

The first time you come into Wine Expo looking for something specific, the payoff begins. I went in looking for a special bottle of Antinori Tignanello, or a reasonable facsimile. I was pointed to a wonderful Montecalvi Toscana at a third, or less, of what I would have paid for the Tig.

Since that first trip, I wander in on a whim, drop a few keywords of what I’m interested in (bold, oaky, everyday, special, gift, dry, $30, $20, $10…) and then enjoy my quick guided tour of the store while I am handed a bottle here and there. I still haven’t had a dud and always feel like I am getting more than I pay for.

A word of caution. On more than one occasion I have had a bottle or two that I love and the next time I go back, Wine Expo is sold out. They buy from smaller growers at times and get good deals. There is no guarantee that the vintage will be in stock next time you go. If you find something you like at the right price, stock up!

WINE EXPO
2933 Santa Monica Blvd
Santa Monica, Ca 90404
310-828-4428
1-800-WINE EXPO