Buying wine can be an interesting and never-ending adventure even for those that are fairly knowledgeable, don't allow yourself become frustrated and give up. Wine vintages, no matter where the wine grapes are grown or who the winemaker is, have varying degrees of yearly changes  anywhere from very noticeable to very subtle. Such annual differences could have any of a multitude of reasons for changes such as different weather conditions, change in winemaker, winemaking style, or grapes from a different grower.  Just remember that you're not the only person that isn't 'wine savvy'. The following tips should be helpful.

 1. Avoid last minute wine purchases. Try to stay ahead by reading about wines. Sign up with several newsletters from wine purveyors over the internet. Choose newsletters that have current releases, award winners, and what's new in the wine world. Try to stay up with wine prices as well. The most expensive wine isn't always the best. You also get some great deals with new unknown wineries.

 2. Carefully choose your wine retailers. Wines are best kept when stored on their side not standing up, which will eventually dry out the cork. Wine should also be kept at a constant cooler temperature and not  warm. Erratic fluctuations in temperature might alter the wine's flavor. Avoid wines that are stored near sunlit windows as well. Wine retailers are usually more informed and knowledgeable than your local grocery store. Wine retailers should be able to suggest types of wines that will go best with any foods you might be serving.

 3. Try to make your wine purchases from one or two retailers. Don't be afraid to ask questions! Find a friendly salesperson. You'll be surprised how much you can learn.

 4.Most wine retailers store their wines by grape variety such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc etc., with not only American wines but also foreign wines. Familiarize yourself with the store's categorical system, which will aid you in finding a wine on short notice.

 5. Have a good idea of what you want and ask for advice. What wine will go best with your needs? If it's to go with a meal, what will be served? The more you know as a shopper the happier you will be as a consumer.

 6. Your personal taste should be the deciding factor in your choice of wines. If in anyway possible taste the wine before you buy it. There are a few wine tasting bars around. There are several in Napa and Sonoma and if you should be going to Maui check out Lani's restaurant and bar.