Wine Bench FAQ
Q. How many bottles are in each Tasting Package?
A. Two bottles. Each Wine Bench Tasting Package features one bottle each of two different wines. The Packages are sent six times a year. You have the option to receive six or twelve bottles of each wine in your Tasting Package for an additional fee. Keep in mind you have the option of requesting a "Reds Only" tasting pack.
Q. When are the shipments sent?
A. The Tasting Packages are delivered to you in late January, March, May, September, October and November (approx.). Two or three weeks before the packages are shipped, you will receive an announcement email giving you an opportunity to correct information regarding your membership, or pre-order a selection of wines from the package to save on shipping costs.
Q. What, other than the bottles, is included in the Tasting Packages?
A. Accompanying each Tasting Package will be a story called "A View from the Bench," Winemaker Mike Brunson's Tasting Notes, and companion recipes, all designed to enhance your tasting pleasure as you consider the wines and the accompanying Order Card. You will also receive a current price list and calendar of upcoming events.
Q. May I purchase additional wines?
A. Absolutely. The Order Card in your Tasting Package will outline the special discounts that apply to the wines in the Tasting Package. You are also welcome to telephone or e-mail the Wine Bench Desk (winebench@michelschlumberger.com or 800-447-3060) regarding the other wines also available to you at special pricing. (Mixed cases are always welcome.)
Q. As a Wine Bench member what discounts do I receive?
A. The wines in the Tasting Package average a 20% discount off their regular retail price. For four weeks after you receive your Tasting Package, you have an opportunity to purchase cases of these wines at a discount of 30%. You also have the opportunity to purchase cases of any of the other Michel-Schlumberger wines at a 20% discount at any time.
Q. Do you have events for the Wine Bench Membership, and how can I find out about them?
A. With each Tasting Package you will receive a calendar of upcoming events such as complimentary release parties, open houses, winemaker dinners, our Annual Wine Bench Picnic, December Holiday Luncheon and our Library Cabernet Dinners. Occasionally, and for certain, specific events, you may also receive a separate invitation.
Q. How much does it cost to join the Wine Bench?
A. There is no charge to join the Wine Bench, and there are no membership dues. You pay for the six Tasting Packages (two bottles each). Each package is $48 plus shipping. Tax will also be applied to California shipments. (If you select the six-bottle Tasting Package, the cost is $144, and $288 for the twelve-bottle package.) The six shipments are automatically charged to your Visa, Mastercard, or American Express at the time of shipment.
Q. How can I cancel my membership?
A. There is a six month commitment period from the day you join - after that you may cancel your Wine Bench Membership at any time. You may also place your membership on hold and then reinstate at a later date. Simply call (800) 447-3060, or email winebench@michelschlumberger.com to make arrangements