The Sampler - an enjoyable alternative to other wine shops

Every once in awhile a brilliant idea comes my way that makes me think, 'I wish I had thought of that - and had had the money to do it.' The Sampler is just such an idea.

The Sampler is an independent wine shop in Islington near the Highbury and Islington Station (but not a terribly long walk from Angel either). However, unlike any wine shop I've ever visited, The Sampler has installed ten Sampling Machines around the shop, serving 25ml tasting samples. There are three chilled machines for white wine, six for red wine, and one for "Wine Icons," giving a total of 80 wines available for tasting at any time. The Sampler changes all 80 wines every few weeks. Sample prices start as low as 28p, and most are around 50-80p. Sampling is easy. According the shop's website, here's all you have to do:

1. Come to the Store!
2. Buy a smart card for £10, £20 or £50
3. Grab a tasting glass
4. Put the card into the sampling machine of your choice
5. Press the button above your choice of wine and a sample sized portion (25ml) is dispensed. (The price for each sample is displayed above the wine)
6. Try the wine
7. Spit or Swallow
8. Try another...or buy a bottle or case if you really loved the wine you just tried.

This is a fun, practical way to shop for wine in a completely unpretentious setting, where customers are left alone or consulted as they see fit ... and if you're just looking for something to do, a visit to The Sampler can be an inexpensive night out as well.

Click here to visit The Sampler online and keep this shop in mind (and on your radar).