How to Choose a Good Bottle of Wine

How to Choose a Good Bottle of Wine

When it comes to selecting a good wine, factors such as who you will be drinking it with, how much it costs, and if you want to pair it with a meal will all influence your decision. So, next time you’re shopping for the perfect bottle of wine, remember the three “P”s of wine selection: preference, price, and pairing.  By following these three simple reminders, you’re sure to pick a winning bottle for any occasion.

Preference

If choosing wine is new to you, there are a few types to start with. If you like subtle fruit and citrus flavors, try Dune Wines Blanc. If you enjoy sweeter flavors, choose a dessert wine like Muscato or Riesling. For reds, start with Merlot or Zinfandel if you’re looking for full-bodied flavors – or Pinot Noir if you want something lighter.  You should choose a bottle of wine based on your preferences – but be mindful of who you will be drinking it with.

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For instance, if you are hosting a get-together, you might want to choose safer reds for those who might not be accustomed to full-bodied wines. Merlot and Pinot Noir are sometimes referred to as “starter wines” because they are softer and less challenging. When it comes to white wines, choose something refreshing – like a crisp Pinot Gris. If you’re feeling bold and want to experiment with new varietals, asking for recommendations from your local wine merchant based on what you’ve enjoyed in the past is an excellent way to broaden your horizons.

Price

When determining which bottle of wine to buy, what you are prepared to pay is usually a big deciding factor. Not to worry though, you can find an excellent selection of wines in the under $30 price range, and some will be considerably less. In today’s market, you don’t have to pay an exorbitant amount of money for a good bottle of wine, so ask your local wine merchant for some recommendations that are within your price range.   

Pairings

If you’re looking for a good wine to pair with a dish you have in mind, take the most prominent elements and flavor profiles of the meal into account. Think about your protein and whether you will be serving red or white meat. You should also consider the sauces and main ingredients – for instance, will the dish be spicy, herbal, floral, or fruity? Will the flavors be rich and heady or more subtle and delicate? All these questions will help you choose a winning food and wine combination.

The method of cooking will also influence the flavor of the meal – poaching will impart subtle flavor while smoking or grilling will create a more robust flavor profile.  Generally, white wine complements lighter meals and more delicate proteins, such as chicken and fish – while red wines are more suited to heartier, richer meals that call for red meat. For example, a refreshing white wine will complement a delicately poached piece of fish, and a full-bodied red will work well with steak tips or grilled lamb.