Merlot

Merlots have much in common with Cabernets. They can also taste fruity and oaky, but they tend to accent the red fruit flavor (plum, currants, cherry) and add some complexity with flavors like coffee, chocolate, or tobacco. They can be concentrated and have firm tannins, but most often are on the soft side and emphasize the fruit and elegant flavors.  

Pinot Noir

Of the three, the Pinot is the most refined. Mild in tannins, they are often fruity with a hint of peppery spice. They are often a good choice at restaurants when you need a wine to compliment both red meats and fish or poultry dishes.

Basic Whites

Chardonnay

Chardonnays are crisp and fresh with hints of tree fruits like apple and pear, and also citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit. The better Chardonnays are aged in oak and take on some of the flavor of the barrels. Its versatility has made it America's most popular variety of wine, red or white. 

Pinot Grigio

Italy's most popular white wine, Pinot Grigio is crisp and clean with light to medium body. It has the flavors of tree fruits like apples and pear, along with hints of lemon and minerals. The better Pinot Grigios are worth the price and have more body and complex flavors.

Sauvignon Blanc

For those who do not like the sweetness of a Chardonnay, the Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp, dry alternative. The wine incorporates flavors of citrus and melon with grasses, herbs, and minerals. Some Sauvignon Blancs are aged in oak and add hints of vanilla, spice, and smoke.

Opening Act

One of the best places to learn about wine is when you are at a good restaurant. Most establishments that take pride in their wine will have a Sommelier on staff. It is this person's job to help choose a wine that you will be happy with and enjoy. 

It helps to know some of the basics (do you like fruity, spicy, dry, etc.) or even a type of wine you have enjoyed in the past. If you don't know those things, do not worry. The Sommelier will also be able to match a wine to your selections from the menu.

When you find something you like, make sure you make note of it. Your smart phone is a good place to keep a list. There are also many smartphone apps available to help you choose.

So, don't be afraid the next time you enter a wine shop or are handed a long wine list at a restaurant. With a little basic knowledge, and lots of practice, you will be able to find the right wine for you.

Cheers!

SOURCES:

TOTALWINE.COM, ANTIWINESNOB.COM, WINESPECTATOR.COM

MUSIC CREDITS:

PAP COCODRILO - ELECTRONICA ANIMAL

MIAMI SLICE - STEP INTO ME

TRACK JACKIT - BUILDING A NEW CHICAGO

With so many wines to choose from, how do you know which is best for you? At first, it is probably best to stick with some basics in both white and red. As you get an idea of what tastes good to you, you can branch out and discover some new wines to add to your repertoire.

Basic Reds

Cabernet Sauvignon

Generally Cabernets have a rich, fruity, oaky flavor. However, they can vary in flavor and complexity from fresh and fruity, to deep and smoky. The presence of tannins can also vary from strong to mellow depending on the age of the wine and the fermenting/storage process. Tannins are found in the skins of fruit and also in the woods used to create the barrels used for fermenting. They are responsible for the dry, puckering feeling in your mouth when you drink, adding a complexity to the wine's flavor that mellows with age.

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Wine 101 by Jay Clark