What a week. Every week. But summer Fridays don’t just mean starting the weekend early, they’re also a chance to decompress with a glass (or two) of wine. (Thankfully, science says it’s good for your brain.) Here are some ways to explore the world of wine, from sourcing the countertop decanter of your dreams to learning everything you wanted to know about your favorite varietals.
Someone Who Inspired Us
Aldo Sohm, the longtime wine director at Le Bernardin and the founder of his eponymous wine bar, is known for his informed, yet approachable approach to wine. Although he’s been named “Best Sommelier in America,” among other top awards, he keeps things low-key at his wine bar—the menu is designed to complement, rather than complicate, what’s poured.
Check It Out
During Prohibition, the 21 Club survived FBI raids thanks to a 14-inch-thick false wall in the basement. The 2,000-case wine cellar was accessible by inserting an 18-inch meat skewer into a barely noticeable hole in the wall, almost like a key. Today, the secret wine cellar not only offers bottle storage, but also a cozy spot for dinner parties. The space seats up to 22 guests and the seven-course dinner includes wine pairings plus a tour of the cellar.
Add It To Your WishList
It almost sounds too good to be true. Plum, a countertop appliance, acts as your at-home sommelier, by identifying your wine, chilling it to the perfect temperature and even preserving it for up to 90 days. The $2,000 gadget can uncork any standard-sized wine, whether the closure is natural or engineered cork, and even has a self cleaning mechanism.
Know Your Stuff
Kick your wine knowledge up a notch with a Corkbuzz class, offered in both New York City and the Hamptons. Summer-specialties include sessions on champagne and sparkling wines, an introductory tour of Italian wines (with cheese pairings!), and a deep dive into rosé. A pair of tickets would make a great summer wedding gift or thank you for a weekend at your friends’ beach house.
Home Goals
In Southampton, 732 Hill Street is a classically styled 6-bedroom residence which, in addition to its long list of designer details and modern amenities, features an intimate wine cellar in the finished lower level. This stately Hamptons retreat pairs great with a red or white.
732 Hill Street is represented by Gary DePersia.
Photos in order of appearance: Getty Images via House Beautiful, Aldo Sohm via AhaLife, courtesy of Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, Katie Sokoler for Gothamist, courtesy of Plum, Virginia Rollison for Time Out.