The House of Glunz is an Old Town dinosaur; for more than 110 years Chicagoans have made their way to the family-owned and operated wine shop to quench their thirst. The knowledgeable staff (without a drip of pretension) assists both novices and connoisseurs in making a selection of fine wine. Think single malts, cognac, brandies, armagnac, grappa, eau-de-vie or hand-crafted beer (from places like the United States, Germany and Belgium), all produced by world-renowned manufacturers.

Walking into House of Glunz is a little like walking into a library; you are immediately hushed into respect by the vast amount of bottles that stock the high shelves and the isles cutting through the middle of the front room. Divided into type, from French red to sparkling white and cabernet to chardonnay, the shop holds more than 1,000 bottles ranging in price from $10 wines to incredibly vintage (and incredibly expensive) bottles.

Since drinking on an empty stomach can be hazardous to your health, fill your basket with the shop's artisan cheeses and other gourmet foodstuffs. If you have time, taste before you buy with already-chilled drink selections, visit the Museum Room to view fine wine goblets and artifacts from the company's history or check out selections from the rare wine cellar in the Old World Tasting Room. The House also hosts regular tasting events and classes, and private events can be arranged as well. If time is a precious commodity, send your request by phone, fax or email, and your selection can be delivered straight to your home or office. Cost for delivery varies.

Centerstage Reviewer: Albrey Nuss