“Our selection changes often. The most popular ones stay in stock as long as we can keep them, but limited bottlings and smaller labels are going to vary according to what’s available,” explains Giese.

Giese and her staff of educated, seasoned professionals – headed up by sommelier Mark Hefter – are responsible for selecting and stocking the wines, which is why they can be incredibly helpful in navigating the store, keeping tabs on the ever-changing stock and leading customers to the perfect bottle.

The selection at the tasting bar changes seasonally and there are always about three dozen reds, whites and “bubbles,” either by the two-ounce pour or the full glass. Depending on the time of year, you may find more crisp, cold Chardonnays, or rich, heart-warming ports and Madeiras. In addition, there are sakes, beers and dark, earthy ales.

“As a full-service wine bar, we do a lot of private functions,” says Giese. “We can order from any restaurant on the premises.” Not surprisingly, oysters and other chilled delicacies from nearby  rm seafood are a foodie favorite.

After sipping and shopping, tasting and learning, customers can put the finishing touch on their wine-buying experience: picking out unique designer stemware in which to enjoy the fruits of the vine; personalizing bottles and glasses with on-site etching; or packing them in 55 Degrees’ distinctive bubble bags and shipping them off to every corner of the globe. 

55 Degrees offers a chance for wine lovers to stop, shop, relax, and imbibe – in any particular order, any day, any season throughout the year.