You'll find zillions of wines out there on the retail shelves, so how the heck do you decide what to buy? There are lots of things to consider, with most people it's price and variety, such as, you are looking for a $20 California Chardonnay. Some other ideas to help you pick the best bottle follow.
You can stick with what you consider reliable brands when you don't want to experiment. If you like Chateau St. Michelle Chardonnay, Joel Gott Cabernet, Bogle Zinfandel, etc., don't be afraid to buy it again.
On the other hand, if you are bogged down in Sauvignon Blanc, don't be afraid to venture out. Maybe start with something similar, like Chenin Blanc, Albarino, or Vermentino. If all you drink is Malbec maybe it's time for Merlot.
Try something way different. You might want some help from a wine shop. Check out Viognier, Albarino, Carignon, or Petite Sirah. Heck, at least try Barbera and Sangiovese, a couple of reliable Italian grapes.
Don't assume European wine is always better than New World wine. They will be different as soil, climate, vineyard practices, and other things, are different. Whether different is better is a personal choice.
A wine shop is great for special bottles because you can get help. Learn how to give the right information to get the best answers. Just saying, "I'm going to my girlfriend's for dinner tonight" isn't enough. Saying, "We're having an afternoon chicken BBQ. I know all the guests like white wines. I want to keep the price under $40."
Buy wines for use during certain seasons. A heavy Cabernet on a hot, humid night isn't so great. In the winter, one of those buttery Chardonnays might be better than a cold Sauvignon Blanc. In the previous paragraph, with the afternoon BBQ, the heavy Chard might not sound as good as a cold Sauvignon Blanc. And for the $40 they wanted to spend, you can probably get two bottles. In general, lighter wines for hot weather, heavier wines for the cold.
So, consider usage and setting of the wine.
No comments:
Post a Comment