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Dedicated to the discovery and
enjoyment of the world's finest wines, Christopher's Wine
Warehouse opened its beveled glass doors August 2, 1999, in
Rice Village. Following five successful years, the store
relocated to The River Oaks Shopping Center and is now known as Christopher's
Fine Wines . The very first of its kind in Houston, Christopher's
is designed, decorated and stocked in the European fashion.
This is the brainchild of owner
Christopher Massie. Christopher is a Graduate Sommelier with 20
years experience in the wine industry. He first fell in love
with France in his late teens and has been a Francophile ever
since. Massie studied at the L' Ambassade du Vin in Burgundy
where he graduated as a Sommelier. While there, he worked at
several vineyards throughout Burgundy making wine over the
course of two harvests. Massie considers himself a 'professional
taster', specializing in European wines -- and that is exactly
what you will find at his new fine wine boutique.
From the moment you enter the
store with its hardwood floors and exposed brick, you are
transported to the neighborhood wine stores of Europe. Housed in
a spacious, 1930's storefront, the cozy reading area near the
front window and the bistro tables lining the wall set the tone
for the store.
Wines are displayed on 8-foot
long handmade country French tables. Selections range in price
from $10.99 to $300.00 and up. A special rotating selection of
48 wines under $20 can be found in the wine racks located at the
far end of the floor. The majority of featured wines are from
Europe, especially France. Other favorites of Massie include the
highly acclaimed wines of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa,
Italy, Spain, Germany and Austria. However, hard to find wines
from small, esoteric wineries in California, Washington, and
Oregon are also occasionally available. Regardless of the
country of origin, Massie seeks out wines that represent some of
the greatest values available today.
On Wednesday evenings, Christopher's
Fine Wines hosts their weekly wine seminar focusing on
outstanding values. These seminars aim to enhance the wine
knowledge of all consumers, from novice to oenophile alike. Each
seminar will focus on numerous wines, allowing participants to
compare and critique some of the best value wines of the world.
Massie is especially keen on blind tastings and comparing and
contrasting wines from different countries and regions.
Saturdays will feature a buyer's
tasting showcasing some of the higher-end selections in the
store. And, special tasting events and private parties can be
scheduled upon request.
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