Selecting a wine for your dinner can be an adventure for your taste bud because there are so many different grapes, Provinces and countries.
Choosing a wine is very personal, just like selecting a mate. What may appeal to one person may not please another. For instance, my favorite wines are red or white Bordeaux Vintage, which are aged and bottled in Chateau. However, there are also excellent table wines either from the grapes of many countries like Medoc, Le Loire, Reims and so on. All wine-producing countries have their own type of wine.
Following are some common questions people have about wine. You may find the information helpful.
Are there good wines produced in the United States?
In the United States we have come a long way in wine production, especially in northern California. Napa Valley has many excellent wineries and also produce vintage wines.
What do I look for when I buy a bottle of wine?
The best way to purchase wine is to read the label first. The Contents could be described as fruity with full body or mellow with nutty flavor, etc. You be the judge of what will please you or be appropriate for the occasion.
How do I know whether to serve the wine warm or chilled?
Always open a bottle of wine at least 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Wine must breath for full flavor to develop.
Red wines are served at cool room temperature but white, rosé and Champagne are served slightly chilled.
What is Champagne?
Champagne originated in a small valley in France. The grapes and climate is very special however there are different methods of processing. Some may be called Sparkling Wines.
How can you tell if a Champagne is good?
The best Champagne has very tiny bubbles.
What can you expect to pay for Champagne?
The price varies, not necessarily by quality, but from supply and demand. Normally $25.00 to $75.00 for a bottle of champagne is good however expect to pay more at a restaurant. Again, it is entirely a matter of taste and how much you are willing to pay.
Some Vintage wines and Champagnes can be valued at several hundred dollars, even thousands. For instance 1943 Chateau Lafite, Haut Brion wine and Taintager Champagne will carry hefty price tags.
How can you learn about wines?
The best way to find some of your favorite wines is to attend wine tasting and tour a winery in every country you visit. If you do not travel much, many local wineries specialize so you may want to visit several different ones in your own area or if you do travel throughout your country, make a point to visit one in the city you are visiting.
Many fine wine shops and some better restaurants often hold wine-tasting events. Join with them and one of the regular wine enthusiasts will be sure to take you under their wing.
In the better eating establishments, a good sommelier can be very helpful in your wine selection. Don't be afraid to ask. There are so many different wines and nobody expects you to know about every single one of them.
Should you venture into wine tasting?
But of course!
Please accept my modest comments and knowledge on wines. Again, it is based on personal taste.
