Sip Smarter: 9 Tips to Scoring Great Wine Deals

One way to always stay ready for social gatherings, a relaxing night in, or a special occasion is to keep a few bottles of wine on hand—but that doesn't mean you have to overspend on your favorite selections when you go to the store.

With a little planning, you can enjoy excellent wine at impressive value. Here are some of the best ways to save.

Join loyalty programs and wine memberships

Supermarkets and wine shops often have free loyalty programs that provide members-only discounts or first dibs on sales. Savings will add up in a hurry if you're a frequent buyer.

Shop seasonally

Wine often goes on sale at certain times of year—after the holidays, during seasonal changeovers, or before events like Mother's Day and Thanksgiving. These are some of the best times of the year to stock up.

Try hidden gems

Popular brands often come with a higher price tag. Instead of buying bottles from popular wine destinations such as California, France, or Italy, try bottles from lesser-known regions and producers—you may find hidden gems at a fraction of the cost.

Buy in bulk

Many stores offer 10 or even 20 percent off when you buy six or twelve bottles. If you know you'll use them, or if you're hosting a large group, buying in bulk can quickly pay off.

Compare prices online

You might be surprised at how much the price of the same bottle of wine can vary—not just between cities, but even between neighboring stores. Before making a purchase, take a few minutes to compare prices across multiple retailers. Online platforms like Wine Spies, Last Bottle Wines, and WTSO make it easy to search for specific bottles and see price differences at a glance. A little research can lead to significant savings—sometimes several dollars per bottle—so it's well worth the effort, especially if you're buying in bulk or stocking up for an event.

Check clearance racks

Clearance doesn't mean poor quality. Often, stores mark down bottles to make room for new stock or updated packaging, and some top-shelf wines can often be bought for much lower prices.

Sign up for email alerts

Retailers often send out notices for special sales or discounts. Sign up for their email list so you can see their top deals on a monthly or weekly basis. This will also allow you to beat others to your favorite selections when the quantity is limited.

Visit warehouse clubs

If you have membership or can get one cheaply, warehouse clubs often sell well-reviewed bottles at wholesale prices, with selections that change regularly. These are great options for people who enjoy trying something new every time they visit a wine store.

Track your favorites

Keep a simple list of wines you enjoy, their prices, and where you've found the best deals. This makes it easier to buy smart when you spot a sale.

Bonus Tip: Buying from ABC stores

You generally cannot buy wine in grocery stores in some states which have ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) stores. Here, prices are set by the states, so they stay the same wherever you shop. They run occasional promotions, and staff often know their inventory well, making it easier to get good recommendations.