In 2017, over 4 billion bottles of wine were consumed in the United States. This alcoholic beverage is versatile. It can be a classy complement to a three-course meal or a fun addition to dinner parties.
There’s a bottle of wine fit for every occasion, but how do you know which bottle to bring and when?
Being able to pick out the perfect wine requires an extensive wine palate. Having a wine palate means you can taste different characteristics of wine and therefore helps with wine pairing. To develop a wine palate requires tastings and practice.
Fortunately, this guide is going to teach you about five of the best ways to try wine, whether you’re a beginner or a sommelier!
1. Try Wine Subscriptions and Wine Clubs
Even better than trying some of the best wines are having those wines delivered to your doorstep.
With a subscription to a wine of the month club or some other wine service, you can develop your palate with the help of experts!
If you know what you like, some services will simply send wines that match your current preferences. Other subscriptions will commit to sending brand new wines that you haven’t tried before. Regardless, these services are a great way to experiment with wines from all around the world.
Once you’ve developed your palate, you can choose which bottles they send each month, or request the same bottles if you find one you like!
2. Virtual Tastings
Almost as easy as having wine delivered is getting to participate in a wine tasting from the comfort of your own home.
Recently more vineyards and cellars are hosting virtual wine tastings.
Some wineries are sending prerecorded videos that provide information about the wines they offer. Others are delivering wine tasting kits. In addition to the kits, they invite couples to sign up for a video chat in which a sommelier walks through the tasting.
3. Wine Tours
For those who are more interested in learning about the wine process in addition to wine tasting may opt to participate in a wine tour.
These wine tours are set up to take guests through the vineyard and inform them about the production of wine. After seeing how the wine is produced, guests are invited to sample wine from the vineyard. Most tours will incorporate snacks or food that pair well with the wine.
A wine tour is perfect for couples as well as big groups of family and friends.
4. Host a Tasting
Ever consider hosting a tasting? Pick a theme for the evening and invite close family and friends. Encourage each guest to bring a bottle of wine that matches the theme!
This turns an opportunity to drink wine into a fun social gathering as well as a tasting experience.
5. Grocery Shopping
Last but not least, the easiest solution to try wine is to buy wine. There doesn’t have to be a specific method or place for you to expand your palate. Simply go to the grocery store and pick out a bottle that looks good.
A willingness to experiment with reds, whites, and rosés will surely help you discover your preferences.
Wine O’Clock
These are five of the best ways to try wine. However, the optimal way is the option that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
If you enjoy learning about the history and process, or perhaps want an excuse to travel, go on a wine tour! If you don’t want to go anywhere but are looking to expand your wine selection, sign up for a subscription, a tasting, or ask for recommendations from friends.
Regardless of your method, it’s time to find your next bottle. If you’re interested in other guides regarding the best food and drink, check out the rest of our site!