Buying wine in Chicago

I've been dormant for sometime but we are on the move again. After spending a glorious but abbreviated 18 months living in London we are headed to Chicago. We bought a house last week and will be living right downtown.

Is anyone familiar with the wine market in Chicago? Any recommendations on the best place to shop?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[Robin Garr]

Welcome back, John! I hope you adjust to the wine and the weather in the Windy City in winter!

I wish I knew more about downtown, but the main big store that comes to mind when I think of the region is Schaefer's, in Skokie, which has a good reputation for wide variety and fair pricing.

[Jenise]

You have the most interesting life, John. Nantucket, Japan, India, London, Chicago...and I know I've left a few out. Were you in New York prior to Japan?

Here you go John: Convito Italiano. In addition to the well stocked Italian wine market, there is a contina with fabulous sandwiches, and a trattoria where you can sit down for lunch or dinner. And they ship both wine and food when possible and allowable. 1515 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, IL 60091; 847-2513654; http://www.convitoitaliano.com . Easiest way for those of you in area to get there is to exit the Ryan Expressway (I-94) at 35A (Lake Avenue). Take Lake Avenue east to Sheridan. Go north .7 miles, and they are on the left.

The one I hear about is Binny's Beverage Depot at 213 W. Grand Avenue but I don't have personal experience with any Chicago wine shops. Binny's has other locations on Jefferson St. and Marcey St. I believe these are all closer to where you will be living.