Can someone explain to me this membership club? Specifically the Monte Bello which i was under the impression was “affordable” but i see that on CT peoples price is about $110 per 750 which puts this into a higher tier for me. But their website says members get 40% as futures. Is $110 the futures price?
Yes, the club allows you to buy an allocation of futures. The price changes year to year, but the 2013 was, for example, $98.00 on the futures. Likely tax and delivery are included in the $110 price you see
According to my records, my 2014 futures were $105 plus tax and shipping (so about $116 all-in). I think the minimum is 2 bottles (in 2 bottle increments).
It is an even better deal if you are able to get up to free (to members) assemblage tastings. They are getting much more popular however so you need to jump on the RSVP before they are sold out.
I have been buying Monte Bello through the club but have stopped because of my age. The difference between this wine and many other California reds is track record. They have been making wine that ages incredibly well for over 50 years. Are there any Monte Bellos that are over the hill? I have not tasted one.
If you don’t want to pay this much, just age Geyserville.