I admit I have not visited many of the fine wine retail merchants in Seattle, but I humbly submit that I have been to many and in quite a few places...Esquin stands out as one of the best. The criteria for a great wine merchant are, among many, selection, staff expertise, and fair prices. Esquin is strong on all counts. Arnie Millan is one of the finest in store sommeliers I have ever met, if not the finest. HIs encyclopaedic knowledge never ceases to blow me away, particularly when it comes to French, Italian and Spanish wines. He knows vintages, terriors, producers, and above all, the "unsung heroes" that are incredible values. Arnie is a wonder! Esquin's selection is excellent and the prices all seem to be quite fair, especially when you consider they carry wines you've never heard of that will taste twice as good at half the price of many of the brands. I'm looking forward to finding another merchant that comes close (for variety's sake of course).
more