5 Wines to Try for Beginners and Wine Novices
Learning about wine can seem daunting at first. With so many types of wine, made from different grapes, in different countries, how does one even begin to understand it all?
Don’t worry! We’re here to help. In this article, we’ll introduce you to five wines that are perfect for beginners and wine novices. We’ll explain a little bit about each type of wine, and give you some tips on how to select the right bottle for your palate. So let’s get started!
1. Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a type of white wine made from the chardonnay grape. It’s a versatile grape that can be found in many different regions around the world, including France, Italy, and California. Chardonnays can vary widely in taste, depending on how they’re made and where they’re from. Generally speaking, chardonnays from cooler climates tend to be more acidic, while those from warmer climates are more fruity.
When selecting a chardonnay, look for one that has the flavor profile you prefer. If you like your wines on the sweeter side, go for a chardonnay from a warmer climate. If you prefer a drier wine, choose a chardonnay from a cooler climate.
Chardonnay is a great wine to pair with food. It goes well with poultry and fish, as well as creamy pasta dishes and hearty salads.
Also, if you’re a fan of buttery flavors, look for a chardonnay that’s been “oaked.” This means the wine was aged in oak barrels, which imparts a rich, buttery flavor.
In case you were wondering, some of the most popular chardonnays come from the following regions:
France: Chablis, Burgundy
Italy: Tuscany, Piedmont
California: Sonoma, Napa
2. Pinot Noir
Pinot noir is a type of red wine made from the pinot noir grape. It’s a delicate grape that is cultivated in many different wine regions around the world, including France, Italy, and Oregon.
Pinot noirs can vary widely in taste, depending on how they’re made and where they’re from. Generally speaking, pinot noirs from cooler climates tend to be more fruity, while those from warmer climates are more spicy.
When selecting a pinot noir, look for one that has the flavor profile you prefer. If you like your wines on the fruity side, go for a pinot noir from a cooler climate. If you prefer a spicier wine, choose a pinot noir from a warmer climate.
Pinot noir is a great wine to pair with food. It goes well with poultry, red meat, and mushroom-based dishes. It’s also a good choice for an “everyday” wine, as it’s relatively affordable compared to other types of wine.
In case you were wondering, some of the most popular pinot noirs come from the following regions:
France: Burgundy, Champagne
Italy: Tuscany, Piedmont
Oregon: Willamette Valley
3. Riesling
Riesling is a type of white wine made from the riesling grape. It’s a versatile grape that can be found in many different regions around the world, including Germany, Austria, and New Zealand. Rieslings can vary widely in taste, depending on how they’re made and where they’re from. Generally speaking, rieslings from sweeter climates tend to be more sweet, while those from drier climates are more dry.
When selecting a Riesling, look for one that has the sweetness level you prefer. If you like your wines on the sweeter side, go for a riesling from a sweeter climate. If you prefer a drier wine, choose a riesling from a drier climate.
Riesling is a great wine to pair with food. It goes well with poultry, pork, and Thai food. It’s also a good choice for an “everyday” wine, as it’s relatively affordable compared to other types of wine.
In case you were wondering, some of the most popular rieslings come from the following regions:
Germany: Mosel, Rhine Valley
Austria: Wachau Valley
New Zealand: Marlborough
4. Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon blanc is a type of white wine made from the sauvignon blanc grape. It’s a versatile grape that can be found in many different regions around the world, including France, Italy, and New Zealand. Sauvignon blancs can vary widely in taste, depending on how they’re made and where they’re from. Generally speaking, sauvignon blancs from cooler climates tend to be more grassy, while those from warmer climates are more fruity.
When selecting a Sauvignon Blanc, look for one that has the flavor profile you prefer. If you like your wines on the grassy side, go for a sauvignon blanc from a cooler climate. If you prefer a fruitier wine, choose a sauvignon blanc from a warmer climate.
Sauvignon blanc is a great wine to pair with food. It goes well with poultry, seafood, and salads. It’s also a good choice for an “everyday” wine, as it’s relatively affordable compared to other types of wine.
In case you were wondering, some of the most popular sauvignon blancs come from the following regions:
France: Bordeaux, Loire Valley
Italy: Veneto
New Zealand: Marlborough, Nelson
5. Merlot
Merlot is a type of red wine made from the merlot grape. It’s a versatile grape that can be found in many different regions around the world, including France, Italy, and California. Merlots can vary widely in taste, depending on how they’re made and where they’re from. Generally speaking, merlots from cooler climates tend to be more fruity, while those from warmer climates are more spicy.
When selecting a merlot, look for one that has the flavor profile you prefer. If you like your wines on the fruity side, go for a merlot from a cooler climate. If you prefer a spicier wine, choose a merlot from a warmer climate.
Merlot is a great wine to pair with food. It goes well with red meat, poultry, and mushroom-based dishes. It’s also a good choice for an “everyday” wine, as it’s relatively affordable compared to other types of wine.
In case you were wondering, some of the most popular merlots come from the following regions:
France: Bordeaux, Loire Valley
Italy: Tuscany, Piedmont
California: Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley
Other Popular Wines
In addition to the wines mentioned above, there are many other types of wine that are popular among drinkers. Here are a few more to keep in mind:
- Zinfandel: A type of red wine made from the zinfandel grape. It’s often described as being “juicy” and “fruity.” It’s a popular choice for an “everyday” wine.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: A type of red wine made from the cabernet sauvignon grape. It’s often described as being “full-bodied” and “powerful.” It’s a popular choice for a special occasion wine.
- Sparkling Wine: A type of wine that has bubbles in it. It can be made from any type of grape, but the most popular sparkling wines are made from the chardonnay and pinot noir grapes. Sparkling wine is a popular choice for a special occasion wine.
As you can see, there are many different types of wine to choose from. The best way to find the right one for you is to experiment and try different wines until you find the ones you like the best. Cheers!
FAQs
How is wine made?
Wine is made by fermenting grapes. The fermentation process converts the sugars in the grapes into alcohol.
What are the different types of wine?
There are many different types of wine, including red wine, white wine, sparkling wine, and rose wine.
How should I store my wine?
Wine should be stored in a cool, dark place.
How long does wine last?
Wine can last for many years if it is stored properly.
How do I know if wine is bad?
Wine that has gone bad will often smell sour or vinegary. It may also have a cloudy appearance. If you are unsure whether or not wine is bad, it is best to err on the side of caution and throw it out.
Can I make my own wine?
Yes, you can make your own wine at home. However, it is important to note that making wine is a complex process and requires special equipment and knowledge. If you are interested in making your own wine, we recommend that you consult with a professional before getting started.
