Wine accessories can be purchased at Decant. But for most visitors, it is all about wine. The wines are quite eclectic and David’s point of difference is his focus on European wines, from affordable to grand cru. There’s a particularly good choice in white and red burgundies, Rhone reds, Spanish and Italian classics and contemporaries and interesting pickings in aromatics with Gruner Veltliners, Alsatian wines and German Rieslings. As can be expected, David runs regular wine tastings on the premises, these being an excellent opportunity of keeping up with the fine wine scene.
The earthquakes have only affected Decant in a minor way, and it seems business is growing steadily. When we visited late afternoon, there was a steady stream of wine buyers and people enjoying food and coffee. The counter food was being rapidly depleted…
The renovations have made Vino Fino a brighter and fresher place, but it remains pretty much the same as it was. Three levels, the ground level and entrance showing wine memorabilia and the area where the regular wine tastings are held. The second level of the retail and point of sale area packed with specials and bargains of promoted wines, then up to the third level, a treasure trove of wines from around the country and the world. It’s the breadth of wines that makes Vino Fino indispensable for the wine shopper, as there really is something for everyone. Rex, Paul and Andrew are mines and minds of information where advice can easily be found. And there’s the full support in function supply and associated services.
Business is different after the quake. For a while, they were right on the edge of the ‘Red Zone’. It was a close call indeed. The area was one to keep away from. After re-opening, Rex has found there are fewer office workers coming in during the day, at lunchtime and after work. But Vino Fino has always been a destination store, so people still come from afar to shop. A stack of orders made up, ready for collection and delivery was proof that business is returning and strong.
Vino Fino, 188 Durham Street, Christchurch. Tel: 03 365-5134 www.vinofino.co.nz
