How To Select A Fine Wine

Selecting A Fine Wine Doesn't Have To Be Difficult As Long As You Keep The Following Rules In Mind

"Quickly, bring me a beaker of wine, so that I may wet my mind and say something clever." - Aristophanes

For those individuals that are more interested in finding a delectable wine to savor than being clever, the following tips might be useful.

Obviously, selecting a specific type, year and brand of wine is a matter of personal preference. However, all differences aside, there are some broad guidelines on which we can agree, within the confines of price, of course.

Fortunately, with the major growth of vineyards around the world and wine related websites, availability is no longer an issue. People in California or Venezuela can order a New Zealand Syrah that isn't carried by a local merchant just as easily as anyone in Auckland can.

Other than questions of pairing fine wine with food, are you looking for a light white or a full red? Some people find Madeira too heavy, others find a German Riesling too dry. Most readily available wines are meant to be enjoyed shortly after you purchase them, but for those with the desire to taste the finest wines, patience is a virtue. Cabernet Sauvignon would better suit those willing to age than a Pinot Noir.

A cool climate Chardonnay, such as a Canadian, will be of interest to those individuals that enjoy a young wine with prominent acidity. BHowever, it can also be preferred by those who want to experience it's nutty, honeyed character that comes with aging.

Descriptions by class can be helpful. Class 1 wines, often labeled 'Light Wine' or 'Red Table Wine' will have an alcohol content between 7% and 14% by volume. Class 7, by contrast, will have an alcohol content of not less than 15% by volume. This type has usually been compounded with Brandy and flavored with herbs. Those with greater concentrations are considered 'fortified'.

Look on the label for a declaration of the amount of sulfites. Sulphur is often added during the winemaking process to guard against growth of unwanted organisms, but some may introduce more than an individuals taste prefers. Sulphur dioxide is also sometimes sprayed on the grape itself to reduce pests and can leach into the skin. Some wine drinkers are unknowingly sensitive to sulfites and can experience an allergic reaction. Concentrations of below 10 parts per million are fine for most.

When testing a wine, cool to the proper temperature — around 52F (11C) for whites, 65F (18C) for reds — and use a thin rimmed glass that is free of dust. You can clean it by rinsing carefully and drying with a lint free cloth.

Pour to no more than about 1/3 of a glass, held by the stem to keep fingerprints away from the rim and to prevent heating the bowl.

Look for a clear color by viewing against a white background. A Pinot Noir will have the lightness of a ruby, Cabernet Sauvignon more violet. Those from grapes grown in a hot summer and dry fall will result in a darker color; those from a cool summer and rainy fall will be lighter.

Swirl gently, sniff and taste.

Wait! - How would you like to have your favorite specialty wines delivered to your front door at an incredibly low price? Get more information by clicking on the Big Banner above Right Now! It's Easy!