In my last post I explained that many retailers are now putting restrictions on how much alcohol you can purchase (read about it here). But currently these restrictions don’t apply if you are purchasing wine online and the wine is shipped directly to you. So in this article I wanted to cover the tips and pitfalls that you may come across when ordering online.
There are a number of ways to buy wine online and they all differ a little:
- Wineries direct;
- Wine retailers who have a physical and online store;
- Restaurants;
- Online-only retailers.
I always encourage people to buy directly from the winery. Not only are they well setup to ship you wine but you are supporting them directly and allowing them to keep more of the margin. This is particularly important during these trying times. You will need to wait to get your wine, but you will also be limiting your exposure to the virus. Delivery can be as be as little as $10 per carton which is less than $1 per bottle in dozen packs. There are also currently no restrictions on how much you can buy from wineries. One of our favourite wineries is Maddens Rise in the Yarra Valley and Emma or Ben will be happy to look after you. As I always say … support local and sustainable.
Most of the major wine retailers, like Dan Murphy’s, will allow you to order online and then provide two options:
- Delivery to your nominated address;
- In store pickup (sometimes called “Click and Collect”). Your order can be available in as little as 30 minutes from ordering.
However during this current coronavirus situation major wine retailers have restrictions on how much alcohol you buy regardless of how you order and receive it. Picking up your order from the store can also increase your exposure to the virus..
The Government has also temporarily relaxed licensing restrictions on restaurants selling bottled alcohol as long as food is also being purchased. This is currently for pickup or delivery only and you are restricted to one or two bottles. This may mean you only have to visit one place to get your food and wine needs, which could also keep you safer. Check out Queen Caterina Pizza e Birra in East Melbourne who do a great pizza but also have some very approachable Italian wines that go very well with their pizzas.
Finally, one of my favourites, is that a number of boutique wine retailers that also take orders online, like Armadale Cellars are currently offering free delivery if you purchase 6 bottles of more. Nicks Wine Merchants in Doncaster also has a great range of wine ready for delivery some of which are even cheaper than Dan Murphy’s.
And don’t forget Wine Matchmaker’s own online store which has just opened with a carefully selected cellar clearance of back vintage and hard to get boutique wines. We offer contactless delivery (limited area) or you can pick up from East Melbourne.
And remember, however you get your wine, stay safe and drink in moderation.
Cheers,
Antony.
