Everyone who knows me knows how much I love wine. It's one of the most romantic things I can think of, a love letter to a year, the perfect culmination of labor, creative, weather and soil. Wine, to me, is more than just a drink; it's an experience. If you're new to the world of wine and wondering how to get started, you've come to the right place. Bludge here to guide you through the basics and help you unlock the secrets of wine drinking.
How do beginners drink wine?
Let's start with the basics. Drinking wine is an art form, and it's all about engaging your senses. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. **Choose the Right Glass:** Invest in a good-quality wine glass. The shape of the glass can enhance the aroma and taste of the wine. While I am not a wine snob by any means, I am a huge glassware snob. We all have ours flaws
2. **Look at the Wine:** Hold your glass up to the light and observe the wine's color. Is it ruby red, golden yellow, or somewhere in between? This can give you clues about the wine's age and grape variety. Somewhere in our monkey brains we don't like to drink cloudy liquids. Is it cloudy - if it is - is it supposed to be?
3. **Swirl It:** Gently swirl the wine in your glass. This helps get oxygen into the glass to release the wine's aromas, which are an essential part of the tasting experience. Wine loves oxygen, so much so it changes when it meets the stuff (like any toxic relationship.) Wine+oxygen+time=vinegar! So a little bit of oxygen goes a long way.
4. **Smell the Aromas:** Put your nose into the glass and take a good whiff. What scents do you detect? Is it fruity, floral, or maybe a bit earthy? You should want to take a sip after smelling it. There are no wrong answers to what you smell!
5. **Take a Sip:** Finally, take a small sip and let the wine roll over your tongue. Savor the flavors and try to identify different tastes, such as fruit, spices, or even a hint of oak. You'll see some wine-os (me) "suck" wine through their teeth or cheeks, this is just to get more oxygen into it!
6. **Enjoy the Finish:** The finish is the sensation you get after you've swallowed the wine. Is it long and lingering, or does it disappear quickly?
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to enjoy wine. The most important thing is to have fun and explore your palate.
**How do you start liking wine?**
Liking wine is a journey, and like any adventure, it starts with an open mind and a willingness to explore. Here are some tips to help you develop a taste for wine:
1. **Start with Approachable Wines:** Begin with wines that are known for being beginner-friendly. Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a fruity Pinot Noir, or a mild Chardonnay.
2. **Pair with Food:** Wine and food go hand in hand. Experiment with different wine and food pairings to enhance your tasting experience.
3. **Come to Tastings:** If possible, come along to tastings. It's a great way to learn from experts and experience the magic of wine-making firsthand. Ours are really fun!
4. **Take Notes:** Keep a wine journal to record your impressions of different wines. This will help you remember what you like and dislike.
5. **Explore Different Regions:** Wine tastes vary by region. Explore wines from different parts of the world to discover your preferences.
**Which wine should I try first?**
Choosing your first wine can be a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. Here are a few recommendations:
1. **Chardonnay:** This white wine is often described as buttery and can be enjoyed by both beginners and seasoned wine lovers.
2. **Merlot:** A red wine that's known for its smooth, easy-drinking character. It's a great choice for those new to red wines.
3. **Moscato:** If you have a sweet tooth, try a refreshing Moscato. It's light, sweet, and perfect for sipping on a warm day.
4. **Prosecco:** If you're looking for something bubbly, Prosecco is an excellent choice. It's a sparkling wine from Italy that's crisp and delightful.
5. **Sauvignon Blanc:** This white wine is known for its zesty and refreshing flavors, making it a favorite among beginners.
**What does wine taste like for beginners?**
Wine can taste like a myriad of flavors, depending on the type and region. For beginners, you might encounter tastes like:
- Fruity notes such as apple, cherry, or citrus.
- Herbal or floral undertones.
- Hints of vanilla, oak, or spice.
- A smooth and mild finish in some whites or a slightly tannic or dry finish in reds.
Remember, everyone's palate is different, and your taste in wine will evolve as you explore more varieties. So, sip, savor, and swirl your way through the world of wine – it's a delightful journey that never ends! Cheers to your newfound wine adventure!
Beginner's Guide to Drinking Wine
