If you are new at buying wine, here are some tips to navigate the sea of options
If you’re new to buying wine and want advice, start at a wine shop. Whether large or small, a wine shop will have informative signage and staff that will ask you questions and guide you to a wine that won’t break your budget. They might even have tastings available if you’re not sure what you like.
Determine your budget: Wine prices can vary widely, and are not always an indicator of quality. You can find good quality wines in many price ranges, and having a budget in mind can help you narrow your options.
Determine what you are more likely to drink the wine with: White wines tend to go better with cheese, fruits, salads, and lighter entrees, while red wines tend to go better with heartier foods and meats. Maybe you want a dessert wine that will match the sweetness of dessert. Or a good easy-drinking red or white that needs no food to enjoy.
Ask for recommendations: If you are shopping in a wine shop, don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson for recommendations. They can help you find a wine that fits your budget and your taste preferences.
Know your tastes: Consider your personal taste preferences when choosing a wine. If you enjoy sweeter drinks, consider a dessert wine or a fruitier wine. If you prefer less sweet beverages, look for a dry white wine or red wine.
Read the label: The label can provide important information about the wine, such as the type of grapes used, the region where the grapes were grown, and the wine’s alcohol content. But it can also give a valuable description of the flavors.
Try something new: Don’t be afraid to try a new type of wine. Many wine stores offer tastings, which can be a great way to try new wines and find out what you like.
Don’t be swayed by hype: Don’t let a fancy label or the reputation of a particular wine or winery influence your choice. Your personal taste is what matters most, so choose a wine that you enjoy, regardless of what others may say about it.
Remember, the most important thing is to drink what you enjoy. With time and experience, you will learn more about what you like and what you don’t like in a wine.