I agree with Neal. Basically it’s a one man show there, that mostly sells wines of special interest. It’s not a mass market, high volume shipping kind of seller. If your expectations aren’t met, and you complain here, imagine the “I told you so” dance that Neal will triumphantly perform.
My warning is just to protect you from that cruel fate.
I’m just trying to save both John and Ben what could be a problematic (short term) relationship. There are no operators standing by to take your call or pounce on your email, and stuff may or may not be shipped on what you think is the right schedule. I have never taken a corked wine back anywhere, but given the source of these wines I wouldn’t even think to ask.
I’ve been extremely pleased with Ben, with the wines and with the customer experience, but I went into it with a certain set of expectations. If your expectations are different, the real risk is that you (and Ben) are going to be unhappy
I have bought from Ben. Every bottle has been superb, and as one of the earlier posters said, better than advertised.
I have bought from him in the past and still do occasionally.
I don’t buy really old wines from him any more. IMO he could give better descriptions of bottle condition. Having said that, everything else has been fine. It’s been many years since I had him deliver; I am a bottom feeder by the standards of his average prices and his shipping is expensive. I drive by there often enough to pick up by appointment. He’s always had everything ready and been pleasant. Recommended, but if you’re buying something with significant bottle age, bear the risk.
Dan Kravitz
+1. I buy younger stuff there (say, 2000-present) without worry. But if a 30+ year old wine has a top shoulder fill, just describe that bottle condition, irrespective of whether one considers that “normal” for a wine of that age.
Just looked at the selection and I’m interested in a 375mL bottle of the 2015 Bryant Family Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Would make a great 30th Wedding Anniversary gift for my parents.
I deleted this post, water under the bridge
Do you consider that capsule condition bad for 50+ year old wine?
Michael, PM coming.