Murray Hill Wine Shops
 

 
474 Third Ave. 10021
Cross Streets: 32nd & 33rd St.
212-779-4422
 
Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-9:30pm Fri 10am-10:30pm Sat 11am-10pm
 
A local shop specializing in rare wines and champagne from Australia, France and Italy. The wines are divided by region; and there is an entire alcove devoted to some very obscure Latin America, Kosher and African wines. A large fridge in the front serves up chilled, ready to drink whites. The nicer wines are locked in glass cabinets, but everything is easy to see and the layout of the store is very logical. The owner and his wife are extremely friendly; and more than willing to help you. They host weekly tastings (Thu-Sat 5-8pm) to introduce new flavors to the neighborhood.