Retailer Check: Aabalat Fine and Rare Wines

WINE TALK
1

Anyone done business with them? Positive or negative feedback? Searched the forum but couldn’t find much information on them. They appear to have a couple of older bottles that I’m interested in. Thanks in advance! [cheers.gif]

2

Ive bought successfully some older wines from them. 95/100 times though their inventory is really really expensive.

3

I think they function more as a broker than a true retailer with inventory. Some years back I asked about, and was willing to purchase, several different bottles. Owner came back to me with an answer like “we can’t locate those bottles.” I inquired some more and realized that they are quoting prices for wines that they don’t have and must first obtain. Also, the owner always answered the main phone line on his cell phone, which led me to believe (mistaken or not) that there wasn’t much of a physical presence.

4

That’s better than “Rudy’s a little busy now, call back next week.”

5

I have purchased from them once with no issues. Like Faryan an older vintage wine.

6

Back in the day, before Rick Sajbel passed, I did a fair amount of business with Aabalat. Everything always seemed above board, but that is some years ago. I haven’t heard anything to the negative since then, though their prices do appear to be a little stiff.

7

One nice transaction back a few years ago. I shot them an email prior to placing the web order to see if it was in stock. The wine arrived in good condition.

8

Pretty sure they are publishing a Bay area importer’s wholesale list.

9

Make sure that they have the stock before you order. I also agree that for stuff that’s relatively available (whether they have it or not), they’re prices are relatively high. Lastly, as it relates to the older bottles you highlighted as your interest, I think some due diligence on provenance would be prudent.

10

Thanks for the input!