Wine Budget

As the New Year is almost upon us, corporate America is doing their budgets and forecasting for the next fiscal year. The same can be said for many individuals in this tough economic time. No salary increase again this year? We can only wait and see.

This brings me to the question of wine budgeting for the year. How many people actually budget for wine? Do you have an amount set aside for purchases in 2010? Is it just going to be "shooting from the hip" and buy it when the spirit moves you, or when you find a deal?

I have some personal goals for the year as far as wine purchases fit into my budget. I want to buy the 2000 vintage of Penfolds Grange to share with my son when he is older, and 2000 is his birth year. It will set me back around $200 or so, but to me it is worth it.

I understand that the concept of budgeting for wine may be an odd one, but I ask the questions:

1. Do you budget for wine?
2. What percentage of your income to you set aside?
3. What is the high-end amount you will spend on one bottle?

Thanks in advance for the feedback.