Get Your Bearings On The Wine Market
An historic beverage dating back thousands of years is wine. It has a versatile nature; you can cook with it, or you can simply drink it. It is important to always choose a wine that compliments the meal, rather than disagrees with it.
Keep a wine journal. Write down the names of wines that you taste and what you think of them. Over time, this will develop into a great resource for you. It is also nice to look back and see where you came from and what direction you are headed in when it comes to your wine preferences.
Trust your instincts when you purchase wine. Wine professionals may have strong opinions about which wines are best, but ultimately, your own palate is all that matters. If you like it and it’s cheap, then purchase some. After all, the goal is to drink something you enjoy.
Decrease the amount of wine you drink if you notice a headache after drinking it to accompany a meal. Your headaches may be caused by the sulfites contained in wine. Therefore, if you get these headaches, it is best to drink in moderation.
The warnings for sulfite on wine labels should not scare you. All wines contain sulfites, but only American distributors have to include a warning on the label. In rare instances, sulfites may cause an allergic reaction to certain individuals.
If you plan on pairing a wine with lasagna, try going with red wine. The higher acidity in these types of wines pair quite well with the tomato sauce that is usually in lasagna. Many lasagnas have ingredients like green peppers, and the flavor of a red wine can accentuate them.
Remember that wine shops can vary as much as wines themselves. Each one has a different set of priorities, product list and pricing structure. If you are very new to wine and setting foot in a place where the cheapest bottle is $60, you should look for a lower-end store where you can discover your palate and favorite brands.
Drink white wines while they are still very young in age, typically the first year or two. Chardonnay is an exception to this rule. The reason for this is because oak is not typically used in the production of white wines. The reverse is true for the many varieties of red wines.
Remember that rules were made to be broken, even when it comes to selecting wine. Just because the “norm” indicates you should pair red wine with red meat and white with fish, chicken or salad, doesn’t mean it’s set in stone. Enjoy your meal with your favorite wine, no matter who says they go together!
As you explore a wine for the first time, try to pick out each note and flavor. You might find the wine takes on the flavor of a fruit, etc. You may also taste sweet caramel or smoky flavors. Pay attention to these different aromas and it will become easier for you to recognize them.
Wine is such a great addition to any meal or occasion. Selecting the proper wine is important, since it can enhance your meal greatly. Apply the aforementioned tips to help make your wine enjoyment fulfilling.…