If you are a newcomer among wine drinkers or just getting started to work in the wine industry you might want round out your wine knowledge with some basic information. This simple guide will help you discover your palate and understand the science behind wines. Unfortunately, most people find drinking, choosing and tasting wine more intimidating than enjoyable. But, the more you learn about the wine – the more fascinating it becomes.
Learn the Wine Basics
If you are all set to explore the world of wine, you might want to start with the basics. For example – how is wine made, how to hold a wine glass, what are wine legs etc. You can also try watching some wine documentaries or reading books and articles where you can learn more about the world of wine. Along the way, you can start exploring the different styles of wine in order to develop your own wine preferences.
How to Choose Wine
Most wines can be categorized into 9 different styles. Start with tasting each of these styles and you will have a better understanding of what you like.
1. Sparkling Wine
2. Light-Bodied White Wine
3. Full-Bodied White Wine
4. Aromatic (sweet) White Wine
5. Rosé Wine
6. Light-Bodied Red Wine
7. Medium-Bodied Red Wine
8. Full-Bodied Red Wine
9. Dessert Wine
Once you’ve explored different styles of wines, it’s time to move on to the grape varieties that are used to make the wine. Keep in mind that wine is a product of soil and climate of the wine region, and the same grape varieties can produce completely different wines. There are several hundred different grape varieties that are used to produce the wine – which results in different flavours and qualities of the wine. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the by the sheer collection of wines – there are various wine apps that will help you understand the wine glossary, assist you in wine shopping and learn about the wine tasting process.
Storing and Serving Wine
Every wine has its own characteristics and style, and in order to enjoy those characteristics to the fullest – you need to store and serve it properly. Storing and serving wine at an optimal temperature, you will ensure maximum enjoyment without affecting the flavour or aroma of the wine.
You also want to make sure that you are using the right glassware. Using the right glass will improve the taste of your wine, and this statement is backed up with science. Red wines, for example, have a much better taste when they come in touch with oxygen. That’s why glasses for red wine come with a wider opening. Glasses for sparkling wine have a narrow shape which keeps the bubbles in optimal condition and the white wine glasses typically have smaller bowled glasses to express acidity in wine and preserve the aromas.
Wine and Food Pairing
Learning more about the wine basics will help you create your own wine and food matches. Pairing the right wine with your dish will create a balance between the components of a dish and the characteristics of the wine. Start with dishes that have less demanding flavour to combine with wine, such as chicken. Then you will be able to go on for much complicated tasks like wine and cheese or wine and chocolate pairings.
