Wine basics for the novice drinker.

Wine basics for the novice drinker.

I see people all of the time in my store that are clearly novice wine drinkers. It is my challenge to provide them with a product that they will enjoy, without making them feel inferior or uneducated. It is a fact that wine can be quite intemidateing to most people (I have researched and sold wine for over twelve years, and I have just scraped the surface).
My rule number one is to ask you if you have ever tried wine before, or if you are eating with the wine or just drinking it. Is it a special occasion or what your motivation is to purchase the wine?
If you are a true novice wine drinker, I will always direct you to a sweeter wine such as White Zin or Late Harvest Riesling. These are safe, and a sure bet with novice lady drinkers. With the guys I have to delve a little deeper into their drinking history. Most guys have a rougher palate, and are ready for lighter reds, such as Merlot, Chianti or Pinot Noir. If you are wanting wine for parties or just to have around when friends come by, I always recommend Wt Zin, Chard, and Merlot these three will cover almost every ones tastes.
Of course there are varying degrees of priceing and quality in all of these general practices, that’s where being a judge of peoples wants and needs come into play. These principles are general rules that I use and teach all the time. So when you visit a wine store if you are in doubt about what wines you will like don't hesitate to ask a wine professional for their opinion.

Until next time. Drink more wine.

Tim Miles- Owner Premium Wines & Spirits –
"Explaining the Miles of Wine"