9 Best Things to Buy at Total Wine: Expert Recommendations & Tips

Walking into Total Wine can feel like stepping into a paradise for beverage enthusiasts. With aisles brimming with an impressive selection of wines, beers, and spirits, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer variety. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this treasure trove.

In this guide, you’ll discover the nine best things to buy at Total Wine. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to impress at your next gathering, these top picks will elevate your shopping experience and ensure you leave with the best of the best.

1. Explore Exclusive Wines

Walking through Total Wine, you’ll notice an incredible array of exclusive offerings that aren’t available anywhere else.

Private Labels and Exclusives

Total Wine’s private label wines come from top vineyards around the world. Discover award-winning selections like the rich Rutherford Cabernet or the zesty Wellington Sonoma Chardonnay. These exclusive wines provide a unique tasting experience without breaking the bank. The store’s strong relationships with renowned wineries mean you get top-tier labels only found on their shelves.

Tips for Choosing Unique Wines

Look for labels marked “Total Wine & More Winery Direct” to identify exclusive selections. Research the winemaking regions you’re interested in, like Napa Valley or Tuscany, for quality assurance. Take advantage of in-store tastings, where you can sample and decide before buying. Don’t hesitate to ask knowledgeable staff for recommendations based on your taste preferences.

2. Discover Premium Spirits

Total Wine isn’t just about wines; you’ll find an impressive selection of premium spirits to elevate your experience.

A Wide Range of Spirits

Explore a vast array of spirits from around the globe. Whether you’re a fan of vodka, gin, whiskey, or tequila, Total Wine offers options for every palate. Discover well-known brands like Grey Goose, Tanqueray, Johnnie Walker, and Patron, alongside artisanal and craft spirits that provide unique flavors and stories.

Recommendations for Rare Finds

Find rare and exclusive spirits that aren’t easily available elsewhere. Keep an eye out for limited-edition bottles like aged single-malt Scotch whiskies, small-batch bourbons, or rare brandy. For instance, you might stumble upon a rare Glenfiddich 21 Year Old or a limited-release Yamazaki Japanese whiskey. Don’t hesitate to consult the staff for expert recommendations tailored to your taste preferences.

3. Invest in Aged Whiskeys

Aged whiskeys are a fantastic investment for any spirit enthusiast. You’ll find an extensive selection at Total Wine, offering everything from classic Scotch to rare Japanese whiskey.

Benefits of Aged Whiskeys

Aged whiskeys offer deep, complex flavors. These spirits mature over years, developing rich notes like caramel, oak, and vanilla. Higher age often means higher quality, as the aging process allows the whiskey to absorb more character from the barrels. Also, aged whiskeys make excellent gifts or collector’s items, appreciating in value over time.

How to Select the Best

Start by checking the age statement on the bottle. Look for whiskeys aged 12 years or more for a richer profile. Pay attention to the distillery—you’ll find reputable names like Macallan, Glenfiddich, and Yamazaki at Total Wine. Ask staff for recommendations based on your taste preferences—whether you prefer smoky, peaty flavors or a smoother, sweeter finish. Finally, consider small-batch or limited-edition releases for truly unique finds.

4. Try Craft Beers from Around the Globe

Total Wine isn’t just for wine and spirits lovers—beer enthusiasts will find it a paradise too. This section is dedicated to exploring the diverse and delightful world of craft beers available at Total Wine.

Discover Local and International Brands

Explore an impressive range of craft beers that span the globe. From American IPAs to Belgian Trappist ales, Total Wine’s selection includes renowned labels and hidden gems. Discover local favorites like Sierra Nevada or Dogfish Head, and don’t miss international treasures like Germany’s Weihenstephaner or Japan’s Hitachino Nest. Each visit can be a mini adventure through different brewing traditions and styles.

Pairing Tips with Foods

Enhance your beer experience with some thoughtful food pairings. Pair hoppy IPAs with spicy foods for a flavor explosion, or complement rich stouts with chocolate desserts. Light lagers go well with seafood, while Belgian ales pair beautifully with cheese. Staff recommendations can guide you to the best pairings, ensuring your craft beer enjoyment is top-notch.

5. Stock Up on Gourmet Food Items

Total Wine isn’t just about drinks. You can also find a variety of gourmet food items that perfectly complement their extensive beverage selection.

Best Food Pairings

Select fine cheeses for wine pairings. Total Wine offers a range of cheeses, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar. Look for expert pairing notes on the packaging to ensure you get the perfect match. Don’t miss out on charcuterie. Choose from prosciutto, salami, and other cured meats that pair wonderfully with both wine and craft beers. Elevate your tasting experience with international olives. With varieties from Spain, Italy, and Greece, they’re ideal for adding a touch of sophistication to your platter.

Must-Try Snacks and Ingredients

Grab artisanal crackers for a gourmet touch. These crackers serve as excellent bases for cheese and charcuterie. Opt for gourmet chocolates. Specialty chocolates at Total Wine can enhance your wine tasting, offering rich, complex flavors that complement red wines particularly well. Explore marinades and sauces. These can add depth to your culinary creations, making them excellent accompaniments to grilled meats and veggies. Finally, snack on premium nuts. A selection of seasoned nuts offers a crunchy, salty contrast that pairs well with an array of beverages, including craft beers and whiskeys.

6. Choose Artisanal Cheeses

Total Wine isn’t just for beverages; it’s also a treasure trove for gourmet food enthusiasts, especially when it comes to artisanal cheeses.

Variety of Cheeses Available

Explore a curated selection of artisanal cheeses at Total Wine. You’ll find everything from creamy bries to sharp cheddars. They offer international varieties like Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano, French Roquefort, and Spanish Manchego, ensuring diverse flavor profiles to suit any palate. Don’t overlook unique local cheeses that bring distinctive regional flavors to your table. Each cheese is crafted with care, often by small-scale producers focused on quality.

Pairing Cheeses with Drinks

Pairing cheeses with the right drinks can elevate your tasting experience. Soft cheeses like Brie complement well with sparkling wines or light ales, while a robust cheddar might pair best with a full-bodied red wine or a hearty stout. For blue cheeses, consider sipping on a sweet port or a bold, hoppy IPA. These combinations enhance the flavors and textures of both the cheese and the beverage, making your gatherings or solo tastings truly exquisite.

7. Pick Up Specialty Bitters and Mixers

Discovering specialty bitters and mixers at Total Wine can elevate your cocktail game to new heights. Make every drink a masterpiece with these essential additions.

Importance of Quality Mixers

Select quality mixers to enhance your drinks. High-end mixers like Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, and Fentimans use real ingredients to provide a clean, authentic taste. Avoid high-fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors—opt for mixers with pure cane sugar and natural extracts. A well-chosen mixer can transform a simple cocktail into a premium experience.

Mixing Perfect Cocktails

Combine craft bitters with top-tier mixers for the perfect cocktail. Use Angostura or Peychaud’s bitters to add complexity and depth to your drinks. Elevate a classic Old Fashioned with aromatic bitters or a Manhattan with cocktail cherries and premium sweet vermouth. Balance flavors carefully—integrate citrus, herbal, and spice elements to create innovative, well-rounded drinks that impress.

8. Collect Unique Glassware and Accessories

Enhancing your drinking experience extends beyond the beverages themselves; the right glassware and accessories can make a significant impact.

Enhancing Your Drinking Experience

Selecting the right glassware enhances the aroma, flavor, and presentation of your drinks. Consider investing in Riedel wine glasses, famous for their design catering to specific wine varietals, or Glencairn whisky glasses that concentrate the spirit’s aroma. Using correct glass shapes, like tulip glasses for cognac or highball glasses for cocktails, adds a professional touch to your home bar.

Choosing the Right Accessories

Elevate your at-home bar with essential accessories. Total Wine offers everything from corkscrews and wine preservers to cocktail shakers and strainers. Look for high-quality brands like Rabbit for wine tools and True for cocktail sets. Opt for aerators to bring out the best in young wines and decanters for older vintages. Investing in these accessories can amplify the enjoyment and sophistication of your drinking experience.

9. Enroll in the Rewards Program

Joining Total Wine’s Rewards Program is a must if you’re a frequent shopper. It offers numerous perks that enhance your shopping experience.

Benefits of Membership

Enjoy instant rewards just for signing up. Earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for discounts. Receive personalized recommendations based on your shopping history. Save time with express checkout. Plus, get access to special events and exclusive tastings.

Exclusive Offers and Savings

Get early access to limited-time offers and exclusive deals. Save more with members-only discounts on selected items. Receive special coupons via email. Enjoy seasonal promotions that are only available to Rewards members. Secure invitations to invite-only sales events where you can snag top products at reduced prices.

Conclusion

Exploring Total Wine is a journey through a world of premium beverages and gourmet delights. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a whiskey enthusiast, or a craft beer lover, there’s something for everyone. Pair your selections with artisanal cheeses, gourmet chocolates, and quality mixers to elevate your tasting experiences. Don’t forget the right glassware and accessories to enhance the presentation and flavor of your drinks. Lastly, joining the Total Wine Rewards Program can add even more value to your shopping experience, making every visit rewarding. Enjoy your discoveries and happy tasting!