Tasting, Buying and Storing Wine
If you’ve ever been at a restaurant and felt like a phony when tasting wine, this guide can help. Learn how to select the right bottle, where to order the accessories you need to start a wine collection and get up to speed on proper wine storage techniques. In short, you’ll find everything you need for tasting, buying and storing wine like a pro.
Expand All Guide SectionsWine Tasting
There’s a science to wine tasting: In order to get the full flavor of a vintage, the wine has to be stored, poured, sniffed and sipped properly. These sites help you make the most of your bottle.
Insights for Wine Tasting
- The tradition of chilling white wine and serving red wine at room temperature is relatively new. In fact, some sommeliers argue that white wine is often served too cold and that red wine should be served slightly cooled.
- The flavor of the food you’re eating can alter how wine tastes. When tasting wine, be sure you haven’t eaten anything acidic or smoked, and don’t brush your teeth immediately beforehand.
Top Sites for Wine Tasting
To learn how to taste wine…
Wine Library TV
hosts a video clip of a wine tasting by Gary Vaynerchuk. The tutorial walks you through the steps in observing, smelling and finally sipping a wine.
JancisRobinson.com
has a glossary of wine terms that shows you what to look for when tasting wine. The “Wine & you” section links to articles on wine basics such as tasting wine.
For serving wine with food…
E. & J. Gallo Winery
has a chart to help you pair wine with food. Select from a number of entrée options and seasonings to find wines that are typically paired with the dish you plan to make.
WineAnswers.com
has a simple tool called “Wine+Food Pairing” that makes suggestions based on the wine, food or flavoring you’d like to serve. Check out the “Perfect Pairings” section for meal suggestions and links to recipes.
Food & Wine
has an advanced search feature to help you find a great bottle of wine. Select by keyword, region, price, type and varietal, or specify “EZ” for easy-to-find wines only. Visit the site’s “Tasting Room” for professional wine reviews.
Wine Reviews
Before you invest in wines to try, it’s a good idea to know what you’re looking for. ... read more »
Buying Wine Online
Use the sites below for buying wine online. Choose wines from around the world, ... read more »
Wine Storage
Get wine storage advice on how and where to place your wine when you’re not ... read more »
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