It's true! Few things are as appreciated as arriving to a dinner, party, or game night with a bottle of wine. Sure you could help do dishes after the meal, but everyone has their own method anyway.
What I love about bringing a bottle over, is that it's such a simple way to show you care. It's akin to showing someone a band that you love (also a key part of a dinner party). You can share your tastes with somebody and bring them into your world, or you can grab something that you know they like to drink and venture into their world. And who knows, maybe you'll find a new favorite!
The first time I met Nic from Cork & Cracker, he was hosting a wine tasting at Chalet. Not going to lie, I was a little intimated to attend. At other tastings I had been to, I was surrounded by people who knew more than me and wanted to make sure I knew it.
This time around was great. Nic poured me a couple glasses and I felt like I was actually learning. If there was a region or term that I didn't understand, he was happy to explain.
The buying experience at Cork & Cracker is just the same. I've never felt pressured to buy a more expensive bottle. In fact, most of the wine in the shop is sub $20. I let them know the occasion, the food pairing, or what I like and the staff is happy to pick out something I'd enjoy. True wine-heads will enjoy the higher end offerings and rare picks that shop carries as well.
I usually pick up a bottle for myself and something a little adventurous to take to a friend's. That way we're both trying something new for the first time.
I'm not lying when I say this place has changed wine buying for me. I've found new wines that I had never heard of, and changed my mind on wines I thought I didn't like. Go give Nic and the rest of the crew over at Cork & Cracker a visit and let them know we sent ya.
Cork & Cracker
2126 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
317-722-9463
https://www.sadlerwinemarkets.com/