Insights from the inside
- Diversity Flourishes in the Astoria Wine Scene - August 1, 2011
Peter in his favorite section: Sancerre
America is known as the melting pot of the world, NYC is known as the melting pot of America, Astoria Queens is known as the melting pot of NYC and Grand Wines and Liquors is certainly the melting pot of diverse wines in Astoria.
Peter Panayiotou is the manager of the long standing establishment. So long standing in fact, that they have been in business since 1932! Grand Wines chooses wines from all areas, as the residents of Astoria come from all backgrounds, so there is something for everyone. Within their 900 labels you can find everything from your typical Napa Cab to an indigenous varietal from Nigeria or Thailand. You can spend $4.99 a bottle or splurge on a premium bottle for $499.00.
Panayiotou shares that over the years less gallon jugs and lower end wines are being sold; while more small vineyard, boutique and cellar bottles are being purchased. Especially since, after 9-11, a younger crowd started moving to Astoria: and as Williamsburg keeps getting more and more expensive, many Brooklynites have been migrating to Astoria to find a higher quality of life. In turn, this neighborhood shop has been catering to this new crowd by stocking the shelves with hipper items.
Don’t know how to choose from over 900 different wines from every corner of the earth? Join Grand at their weekly tasting every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5-8.
Grand Wines & Liquor
30-05 31st St (Off 30th Ave)
Astoria NY 11102
718-728-2520
- Real French wine labels: G Spot, The Titanic, Verdehlgold! - February 2, 2011
Dr. Vino – a Ph.D. who turned his dissertation on the political economy of the wine industry in France and the United States into a best selling book and now is a thought leader and key “go to” for all things wine – posted this fun note on his blog today:
The G Spot, The Titanic, Verdehlgold – punny French labels!
Since it is a common practice for many to buy unknown wines by triggers on the label, I think these triggers will certainly get traction here in New York City wine stores.
Unfortunately, it seems that these wines are still only found in France – from the Loire Valley. Those Frenchmen are certainly using their time creatively. However, I dare say there are some USA vintners who make take this as a challenge. What great labels have you seen – in a wine bar or wine shop – lately?
We promise, if we see these (or other unique versions) come into the market, we’ll be sure to share the whens and wheres. I’d hazard a guess that the NYC wine shop that dares carry them will certainly see a ‘heightened sensation’ in sales – not a sinking one…. ba dump bump.
