Vino Italian Wine and Spirits
121 E. 27th St. (Lexington Ave.)
Murray Hill/Gramercy Park
800.965.8466
www.vinosite.com
Subway: 28th St. (6)

This cozy shop located between Gramercy Park and Murray Hill has a small but focused selection consisting entirely of Italian wines and spirits.

Pros: Recently remodeled, this shop is neatly organized, clean, and comfortable. The staff is very approachable, friendly, and knowledgeable. The selection features many wines from producers the average wine drinker may not be familiar with so there is ample opportunity to be turned on to something new. In fact the store’s Web site claims that they carry wine from every wine-producing region in Italy. There are in-store tastings every Thursday and Friday (Thursday and Saturday during the winter months.) The shop is located two blocks from the subway. Delivery to Manhattan addresses is free for orders of $100 or more, prices are fair, and there is a 10% case discount.

Cons: The focus on more obscure producers means that you may not find that favorite bottle of Italian wine that you’re used to finding in average wine shops. The selection of wines under $20, although decent, could be a little larger. Parking is not easy in this neighborhood and there is no delivery to boroughs other than Manhattan.