A Brief History of Houston Wine Merchant

Houston Wine Merchant was founded in 1984 as Wines of America and specialized in domestic wines. At the time, Houston had a number of liquor stores that carried wine, but wine generally played a less important role than liquor. Our philosophy was to demystify wine for the consumer. The California wine industry was going through a period of expansive growth.

We learned from our customers; and as our expertise grew, we added countries.  Australian wines were first added in 1987, and shortly after Dom Perignon Champagne!  Over the next 10 years, one or two new countries were included in the product mix each year. By the late 1990s Wines of America was bringing the very best wines from around the world to our customers; but that original name no longer accurately reflected our business. 

It was a difficult decision to change our name after 16 years, but in 2000 we did – to Houston Wine Merchant.

We also pride ourselves in our concerted efforts to assist customers with special orders. We will make every attempt to find that special bottle that you might have had at a local restaurant or at that café in Italy, bistro in France or lodge in the Finger Lakes.  If we can find it's available in Texas, we'll happily order as little as one bottle for you.

Assisting collectors, big and small, with assembling a cellar they can enjoy is also one of our specialties; and every year we participate in selling Bordeaux from the previous vintage En Primeur.  These wines are offered for sale before they have finished resting in the Château's cellar, to be delivered to customers upon their formal release - in a traditional format also known as "futures".

For some time now, the name Houston Wine Merchant has also not entirely reflected the scope of our business. Consumer interest in specialty spirits is booming, and our selection of those spirits has grown along with that appreciation. We’ve also developed a robust wholesale business that caters to many of Houston’s finest bars, restaurants, and private clubs.

We offer delivery throughout the greater Houston metropolitan area; and we can also provide gift bags or boxes, a card, or even include a personal note if you like.