9 wine tips for beginner connoisseurs
For the uninitiated wine lover, becoming a connoisseur can seem daunting. But, by following these nine beginner tips, you will go from vino novice to viticulturist in no time.
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Invest in the right stemware
To start, purchase glassware with medium-sized bowls, as these glasses are versatile enough to hold all wines. Look for glasses with thin rims, as these make your delectable new drops taste even better! Finally, remember to hand wash your high quality glassware, as this will keep it in prime condition. If you must use the dishwasher, be sure to use the top rack.
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Invest in important wine tools
If you want to share your quality wines with friends and family, or just enjoy it for everything it has to offer, be sure to pick up those handy wine tools. Buy a decanter online, pick up a quality wine opener and keep a gel-filled sleeve in the fridge for quick chilling when the celebration calls for it!
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Maintain your wine’s comfort
Yes, your wine should be comfortable! Storing them on top of fridges and near places with vibrations can be terrible for the wine and impede on its flavour. It’s good to have a rack in a room where there is no direct sunlight, and even store it in the closet if your space is too small to keep out direct sunlight.
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Keep your cellar stocked with house wines
It’s always a good idea to have house wines on hand. Lightly-oaked Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are good to have at the ready, while Rioja and Merlot are the perfect accompaniment for many meals. House wines don’t have to cost hundreds - they are just a decent wine to have at the ready when you feel like accompanying your meal with something reliable.
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Use an app
When you try a new wine you really enjoy, be sure to note it down in a notebook. Note the aroma, flavours, producer, vintage, wine name and your overall impression. You can then go on to use apps like Delectable and Vivino to find wines based on the flavour, type and price.
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Find good quality wine for great prices
There are plenty of high class wines from all over the world that cost well under $100. For example, South America is renowned for producing high quality wines for great prices, as well as the Languedoc region of France, known for its reds and whites that won’t ruin your savings.
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Boxes & cans often have a good drop
Another cost-efficient option for newcomer connoisseurs, wine in a box is being produced by experts across the world. It’s great for cooking or having just a single glass, and it lasts in its box for months. You can now find red, white, spritzers and sparkling wines all in cans.
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Start (or join) a wine tasting club
In a wine tasting club, members all host and bring wines that are new to them. You can offer simple cheese and cracker boards, as well as smallgoods, and be sure to offer non-alcoholic beverages as well. Enjoy your tastings and share your opinions with other members.
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Know your wine merchants
It’s never a bad idea to get to know the merchants at your local wine store. You can be added to their email list to stay informed about their sales, new products and in-store events. These stores often have wine tastings, so you can get an idea of what wine you want to purchase before actually purchasing it. Ask about bargains and good quality wines that aren’t too expensive.
