Thirst's focus is wines "made as naturally as possible, that really represent terroir."

natural wines from independent winemakers.

Thirst... sells only bottles that fit the philosophy of what it calls “slow wines,” made as naturally as possible.

Quality 24 | Variety 22 | Service 23 | Cost M

A "dream" for Fort Greene natives thirsting for "fine wines," this "chic" shop's wavy racks are loaded with a "lovely selection" of "well-curated" vintages, hand-selected by husband-and-wife owners who favor small French and Italian producers (often imported by California maven Kermit Lynch); with "plenty of" mid-priced options and a "surprisingly" strong spirits section, it's a "party pickup" point of choice in the 'hood.

Thirst’s emphasis remains on small and unusual vintners. Take the West Coast’s Edmunds St. John which proclaims on some labels: “bottled by thirsty pagans with big ideas.” The store itself is an architectural point of interest with its wedge shape and curvaceous racks of ecofriendly materials. A display case of corks mounted like butterflies celebrates picks that Yarmark and Valencia have particularly enjoyed since their move east.

With a welcoming environment, there's none of the attitude, snobbery or intimidation at Thirst that unfortunately accompanies most fine wine establishments. In fact, an absence of tags and wine ratings encourages visitors to converse and ask for recommendations.