Wine Club Corral

A wine club doesn't have to be so impersonal. If you trust your favorite local wine merchant to make selections for you, why not let them do it every month? Here are three shops with clubs for every taste and budget. (And remember: Gift-giving season is nigh.)

For the thrill-seeker: The two new monthly clubs at Echo Park's City Sip allow members to taste the quirky wines proprietor Nicole Daddio finds. Each club gets you two bottles: "Virgins" ($25) might receive something like Chesebro's Rosé and a Spanish red blend; "Enthusiasts" ($50), maybe a Rhône-style red from Paso Robles and Pulse Pinot Noir. City Sip doesn't ship or deliver, but members get extras, like 10 percent off all retail purchases and reorders.

For the traditionalist: When you join either of Wally's two clubs--"Reserve" ($40) or "Collectors" ($75)--expect two high-scoring wines that the Westside shop is known for each month. The first shipment comes with an oenophile starter kit that includes a tasting journal, corkscrew, vintage chart and food pairing wheel.

For the picky drinker: Silverlake Wine's three different clubs ($25 to $75 a month) include selections based on the member's (or giftee's) tastes. Just tell them what you like--rich reds, fruity whites, only Chardonnay?--and they'll pick your monthly allotment. Your two-pack is hand-tailored with unique finds.