A glass of wine can take the edge off after the 9-5 grind, but selecting the right one for a special occasion can be a stressful mission - fortunately, we’ve answered all of your pressing questions. From ordering a bottle at a posh bar to tasting like a pro, we’ve uncovered easy
tips to drinking and enjoying vino with ease. Above all, drink and enjoy!
Speak Up
Can’t tell the difference between Pinot Noir and Chardonnay? Don’t let a drink menu overwhelm you. Any host or hostess should be knowledgeable in the various types of wines that the specific venue offers, which means that there’s no excuse for you not to speak up and let them know
what you're craving for. Whether you’re seeking something that complements a steak dinner or just want to kick back with friends, the best way to explore the world of wines is by simply asking about the selections available. Not only should the host or hostess give you more information on a particular wine, but he/she should also be able to provide some recommendations just for you. Have no shame and ask questions.
Order by Glass
You’ve been craving for a lip-smacking treat, but that bottle of white tastes too much like creamy vanilla fluff and not much else-what a wasted investment just for one night out! When it comes to exploring different wines, avoid ordering a bottle. Savoring wine by the glass gives you the opportunity to sample several types without being stuck with an unwanted price tag. That $14 flute may seem pricey, but would you rather pay $100 just for a few sips? One of the best ways to taste different types of wines is by attending tastings, which are often held at local wine shops. Simply inquire about upcoming events and be prepared to take notes. Be adventurous and enjoy every moment of it.
Know Your Grapes
One of the easiest ways to
familiarize yourself with a specific wine before ordering a glass is knowing what grape variety the bottle highlights. Here’s a basic guide on some of the types of wine you can find in a typical menu. It by no means represents all the wine grapes in existence, but it’s the first step in understanding how they’re different from each other.
Cabernet Sauvignon (Ka-ber-nay So-veen-yon)
A red grape that’s rich with a flavor of ripe plum, blueberry, and black cherry. The wine may include vanilla notes.
Chardonnay (Shar-doe-nay)
A white grape featuring bold, citrusy notes.
Gewürztraminer (Gah-vurtz-tra-meener)
A white grape with a floral aroma that features a spicy meets fruity flavor.
Merlot (Mer-lo)
A red grape that’s light and soft. It highlights ripe cherry, honey, and event mint.
Pinot Noir (Pee-no Nwar)
A red grape that’s very aromatic. Expect strawberry, raspberry, and plum.
Riesling (Rees-ling)
A white grape that’s usually very light and sweet. It’s also known as a “wine for beginners.”
Sauvignon Blanc (So-veen-yon Bl-ankh)
A white grape that’s crisp, light, and grassy.
Syrah/Shiraz (Sah-ra or Shi-raz)
A red grape that’s rich, hearty, and rustic. Think pepper and blackberry.
Confirm Your Choice
When a waiter presents a bottle, he/she is ensuring that it’s the wine you ordered. Once you confirm it is, the server will pour some in a glass. Have a quick sip, no swirling necessary. The purpose of the initial tasting is to make sure that the wine is exactly what you wanted, not to make a last-minute change. When a bad batch is served, you’ll know it right away (example: an off wine can taste like vinegar with an alcoholic kick).
Taste Like a Pro
Everyone can drink wine, but few know how to taste it. Part of savoring wine is appreciating its unique flavor and smell. It’s not meant to be chugged down like you’re drinking ice cold water to quench an hour-long thirst.
Don't rush the experience, but enjoy it instead. Also, there’s no wrong way to describe how a specific wine tastes or smell because everyone’s palate is different. Here are some simple steps on tasting wine:
Step 1: Never hold a glass by its bowl as the heat from your hand can quickly change the temperature of the wine. Instead, hold it by the stem.
Step 2: Observe the color of the actual wine. A darker hue (brick for red, gold for white) implies that it’s older than a wine with a paler (white) or brighter (red) color.
Step 3: As you firmly hold the stem, gently swirl the glass in small circles on a flat surface. This will release the wine’s aroma. Afterwards, hold it up, stick your nose an inch above the glass, and inhale. Is the scent fruity or floral? Deep or light? Take note of what you smell. It’s a preview of what your taste buds can expect.
Step 4: Sip the wine and enjoy its taste before swallowing. If you’re at a wine tasting, you can spit it out (hence the bucket) before trying something else.
