They'll Pick Your Poison

Higher price often equals better product. But Erica Feldkamp and John Witte of The Poison Cup swear it's not always the case with wine.

The 100 wines at their new Lincoln Park shop range from $10 to $86, but the owners are as passionate about their $11.50 Andeluna Malbec and their $13-or-less rack as they are about their $86 Egly-Ouriet Grower Champagne.

To spread the enthusiasm, they guide each customer through their carefully picked selection of boutique (often organic) wines to find a bottle that fits in all the right places.

Even better, Feldkamp and Witte encourage trying before buying. There's a bottle open every day, and themed tastings on Tuesday nights: Go tomorrow, from 6 to 8 p.m., for a sampling of five stellar wines under $15.

Try these wines during your various summer pursuits. Your palate (and wallet) will thank you:

• Back-porch drinking: 2008 Triennes Rosé (Cinsault; $16.75)
• Barbecuing: 2006 Claiborne & Churchill Edna Valley Pinot Noir ($25)
• Summer salads: 2008 Brander Cuveé Natalie (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Riesling; $18.75)
• Brat/kielbasa cookout: 2005 Skin & Bones California Riesling ($16.25)

The Poison Cup, 1128 W. Armitage Ave.; 773-935-1325 or poisoncup.com