When I was first contacted by the International Wine of the Month Club to see if I’d be interested in doing a story about them, to be honest, I was skeptical. I’ve seen other Wine of the Month clubs before and just wasn’t that impressed. The sample shipment I received from the Masters Series level contained two wines and I decided to test them out on my fiercest critics: my wine drinking buddies. The first bottle we popped was a non-vintage Joseph Perrier Cuvée Royale Brut Champagne. It got our attention in a big way. Chris said “quintessential brut, tart palate with bubbly goodness and a long, clean finish.” Jean and Al awarded it with a perfect five-star score and Al said “fabulous. The best I’ve had.” Ken also gave it five stars calling it “absolutely delicious.” Brian simply said it was “lovely stuff.” I thought it was exceptional.
Wine number two was the 2010 Jacques Girardin Clos Rousseau Premier Cru Santenay. This wine also garnered rave reviews from the tasters. Brian’s thoughts were “Pepper! This is great stuff. Wonderful nose on it. Kind of smoky and slightly acidic.” “Bingo!” said Ken. He liked the nice complex nose, and very smooth taste and gave it a perfect five-star score. Al thought it was amazing. Chris loved its full fruity nose and light red fruit on the palate, currants and spice and a lingering finish. He gave it five stars.
Memberships start at $32.95 a month for the Premier Series Club, where you can select two whites, two reds or one of each. The Masters Series is $49.95 a month with the option of one red and one white or two reds. The Collectors Series gives you the same choice, but will run you $69.95 a month. Add $13 a month for shipping and handling. The two wines we tasted easily justified the roughly $83 price tag. They were some of the better wines I have tasted recently. Each wine comes with extensive cellar notes and a recipe pairing.
If you’re looking for a gift for a non wine lover, you could choose from the Microbrewed Beer, Gourmet Cheese, Fresh Cut Flower, Gourmet Chocolate or Premium Cigar of the Month Clubs. You can also design your own custom club combining elements of the other clubs. I’m impressed. I recommend checking them out. I think it’s a pretty killer last-minute gift idea.