For many of us, there comes a point in our lives when we grow from random liquor or beer drinkers to wine drinking trainees. There are a few basics for beginning wine drinkers, and I assure you, choosing and drinking wine is most definitely easier than it looks.

With countless options in wine consumption, it is almost impossible to pick a wine you're sure to love. Many of us try our first glass of wine, turn our nose up at it, and ask someone to pass the brewed stuff. The fact of the matter is there are too many wines to choose from to base your opinion on the first you encounter. Do not be afraid to try many wines, and waste a few bottles in your search. Surely I'm not the only one who has opened a bottle of wine, and thrown the entire thing out only lacking four ounces or so. Many people prefer to begin their wine consumption journey with a chardonnay or white zinfandel, as these are lighter, more palatable options. Deeper, darker wines, such as cabernets or merlots are typically "worked up to", but are often appreciated by the assimilated palette. If it's red you're after, begin with a nice pinot noir, as this is one of the lighter choices in red wines.

Believe it or not, choosing the proper wine glass is important. As disappointing as it may be, enjoying your favorite Shiraz just isn't the same from Mom's old Tupperware cups. Choosing a glass that is not only completely clear, but also true crystal will actually enhance the flavor the wine you pick. Not only will it magnify the experience, but you'll appear so much more believable. No one will ever know that you didn't know zinfandel is red.

Your Grandmother may keep that "good cooking wine" in her fridge for decades, but please do not do this. Essentially, Granny is creating vinegar in that old ice box of hers, and this is not what you're aiming for. Depending on the age of the wine, your bottle should be kept from 24 hours to one week, tops, and in the refrigerator at all times. Wine is not only perishable, but the flavor is also greatly affected by oxygen exposure. Corking your wine as soon as you're done pouring will help, but if the wine is over five years old, chances are the flavor will lose some luster after 24 hours. All the more reason to share with your roommate, significant other, or even dear old Grandma.

Have fun, be experimental, and above all, don't take your new hobby as a wine connoisseur too seriously. Wine consumption is all about leisure and relaxation. Take it for what it's worth, and don't be afraid to fake it 'till you make it.

About the Author

? Cookgroup Marketing LLC - All Rights Reserved. This article brought to you by http://Your-Wine-Portal.com/wines/ . You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice, author name, and URL remain intact.

Short Review on Chardonnay Grape

Wine Appreciation - Fake it 'till you Make It


For many of us, there comes a point in our lives when we grow from random liquor or beer drinkers to wine drinking trainees. There are a few basics fo...


Click Here to Read More About Wine ...

Recommended Chardonnay Grape Items

Reindeer Bottle Holder


Our adorable reindeer holds your favorite bottle of wine. Bundled up for the cold with a matching hat sweater and leg warmers he hefts a mighty bottle on his shoulder to keep the cork moist and make a fun festive display. Made of resin. Size: 4-½'H x 5'W x 6'D


Price: 19.95 USD



Current Chardonnay Grape News

Curry among 'super spices' that provide antioxidants (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:13:58 PDT
McClatchy Newspapers No doubt you've heard the buzz about "super foods" such as blueberries and pomegranates.

Celery adds cool, crisp crunch to summertime dishes (San Antonio Express-News & KENS 5)

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:51:34 PDT
Versatile vegetable is a great source of vitamins, fiber and more, with negative calories.

Nature's happy herb (and other good stuff) is in your kitchen (Orange County Register)

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 12:15:24 PDT
The YOU Docs: Seasoning with saffron may ease PMS symptoms. Pairing up other foods doubles the health benefit.

Corkheads: El Sol Wines - Contra Costa Times

Corkheads: El Sol Wines Contra Costa Times, CA - 3 hours ago When asked why he offers so many different varietals, as opposed to the Chardonnay-and-Cabernet formula of larger regions, he is frank. "Variety," he says. ...

Climate change is causing some vineyards to suffer while others thrive Plenty Magazine, NY - 8 hours ago Chapel Down started growing cool-weather Germanic varietals in the 1980s but today has switched to grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. ...

Labels: Wine Liquor

&type=page">