I’ll get the disclaimer out of the way first, this is a brand new business owned by my friend Bryan Maletis. I have no interest in the business except well wishes for him and delicious Champagne for me.
The company is called Fat Cork. Bryan and his wife went to Champagne last year and found 30 grower Champagnes which were not imported into the US. They are now bringing them in and selling them via the web, or if you are lucky enough to be here in Seattle, you can pick them up at their very cold retail space. I was lucky enough to be his first customer and have tasted two of the three selections I purchased and have been elated with both. His wines range from Brut Nature to Demi Sec and there is a price range for everyone. The site provides great information on the wines as well.
Mods- I am posting this as information to the Berserker community, and am trying to be mindful that it doesn’t sound too much like an ad as I type. If I need to edit the language, please let me know.
It’s on Lower Queen Anne. They are still building their permanent space with the tasting bar, nice fixtures, ac units for the summer, so they are in a smaller space which has more of a warehouse feel for now. It is well organized and I’d recommend sending Bryan an e-mail to set up a time to come by.
Members are certainly entitled to review retailers if they choose, and you have disclosed the nature of your relationship with the owners. Sounds ok to me.
Anyone here buy from Fat Cork? I have a couple co-workers (who are by no means wine geeks) that belong to this club and tell me it’s fantastic. I am not very knowledgeable about champagne and am considering joining. Any insight on the selections and value?
I’ve never done the club (I have a personal policy against any wine clubs), but I have placed numerous orders from them and have always been happy. They have some interesting stuff, and my experience is that their customer service is great.
I ordered from them once because I wanted to try a wine that only they were importing. I found their customer service, packaging and accompanying materials really well done. That said, I think their prices are… “a little high” would be putting it mildly. I really can’t understand why they are charging what they do.