The Wine Sampler — Restaurant in Wilmington

I called 4 wine stores in the area prior to The Wine Sampler. Jamie answered the phone and within 5 seconds, I was beyond convinced that it was my last call. Though i called for a specific wine that was not currently in stock (that NO ONE within 100 miles carried usually), Jamie offered to order the wine asap BUT eagerly (and in a non-snobby-easy-to-understand-simple-way) threw a plethora of other appropriate/comparable Rose recommendations OVER THE PHONE! this included a few taste notes and price notes. His passion and honestly via phone call was enough to visit the store. When my boyfriend and I arrived, The Wine Sample was bustling with happy wine tasters and buyers and we felt warmly welcomed. Jamie knew a handful of what seemed to be regular customers but stepped away to help us out (we were straight off the beach and not 'dressed' for tastings haha). He was so genuine and did not look at us differently as customers though we clearly were salty-haired and only looking for one bottle that day. He immediately and specifically addressed our question... offered suggestions with different price ranges and with genuine reasons for each. He clearly had control over his business and customer satisfaction while maintaining the ability to float, banter, and answer questions seamlessly (we noticed one, maybe 2 other staff members also whom were engaged and happily helping guests). Not only are we happy with our bottle but will not go elsewhere for wine knowledge, purchases, or tastings! (which we learned are regular-wed through saturday from 3 to 7 i believe), dynamic and avant-garde) Very glad we found The...

Love this place! It's in a plaza, so parking is easy and plentiful. You can purchase bottles or help yourself to tastings. I like to try different wines, and if you do too just head to the back bar and ask for a tasting card. There are usually 24-ish wines to taste by automatic 1oz, 2oz, and 5oz pours, half white/rose and half red. Taste what you want and check out when you're done. There's a $30 limit on the card at first; if you go over that just ask and they'll extend the limit (helpful when you're in a group). They also have beers by the pint and a slushie option if wine isn't your jam. There's a plush couch/loveseat/coffee table area and a few tables inside for you to sit comfortably with friends, or a bar with maybe 8 seats. They also have a couple tables outside. Jamie and April are friendly and smart, and can direct you to something you'll enjoy if you're not sure where to start. Bottles are mostly French, Italian, Kiwi, and African, but if there's something specific you're looking for they can probably order it for you. Cannot recommend this place...

Original: Terrible customer service. I met a middle-aged gentleman wearing a hat who looked like he was a manager of sorts and he literally told me I was soliciting after I asked where's the front desk person. It was a joke. Please hire someone who is kind to people who can handle the front door. I will never shop there

Edit: I went back and wanted to forgive and give him a second chance for my business. He was kind and let me know they were closed the 1st time and that he has many solicitors. I really appreciated how kind he was. He spent a little time with me and let me know more about their shop. I hope to see more of him...