This wine club is direct from the producer and operates like a CSA: you pay upfront to support the production and at the end, you are rewarded with a shipment of small-batch wines, many of which you would otherwise not be able to buy in a shop.
Martha Stoumen makes her wines in Sebastopol, California, focusing on sustainable and organic practices. These were some of the most delicious, expertly-made wines among all the winners — redolent of tasty fruit, complex yet immensely enjoyable. I kept looking for a dud in the mix of reds, white and rosé but could not find fault with any of them. A particular standout was the sultry, spiced 2021 Syrah co-fermented with Viognier, which gave it an exuberant lift.
The club, which is available for one-time purchase, is a splurge: $240 to $320 for 6 bottles. Membership comes with first dibs on new releases, bottles only available for club members, and a flat rate on shipping ($30) as well as a discount on other wines from Martha Stoumen.
It might feel limiting to get all the wines from this one producer, but when the wines are this good, it’s hard to see the downside. It’s like having no choice for dinner delivery but all the meals are from the best restaurant in town.
Pricing: $240 go $320 for 6 bottles | Customizable? Can choose 6 or 12 bottles | Does not ship to: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, North Dakota, Rhode Island and Utah | Shipping included? No, $30 flat fee | Membership perks: Early access to new releases, bottles only available for club members, and a discount on other wines from Martha Stoumen
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