The average wine drinker’s buying habits are predominantly influenced by the media, large national trends, and what their friends are drinking. Meanwhile, sommeliers tend to build their wine lists based on recommendations from other somms and the bottles that brand reps might be pushing during any given month. The usual result? Homogenized wine lists and a herd-like mentality among wine professionals that disregards what customers really want.
On one hand, the fact that wine professionals have fostered a tight-knit community makes it easier for trends and buying patterns to catch on across the industry. But on the other hand, it can dissuade sommeliers from curating unique wine lists that set them apart from their contemporaries. On top of that, when wine professionals are more concerned about peer approval than customer needs, they’re simply leaving money on the table. Sure, one could argue that carrying a Napa Cab and a handful of domestic Chardonnays is a bit basic, but nobody ever went broke catering to their clientele’s desires.
On this episode of the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach answer a listener’s question about why it is that so many wine lists look the same these days. Has a new generation of wine buyers, sommeliers, and other professionals calcified to this extent, or are they just afraid to come to their own conclusions and risk the judgment of their peers? Tune in for more.
Zach is drinking: Black Raven Brewing Pilsner
Joanna is drinking: Frosé at Montauk Club
Adam is drinking: 2007 Mayacamas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
