Wine Buying Guide
The three “P”s of selecting wines are Price, Preference and Pairing. Keep these in mind when selecting your wines and you will likely come away with a winner.
Price.
The price you are willing to pay (or not pay) for a bottle of wine is a key determining factor in selecting a wine that is right for you. Gone are the days when you could only buy a “good” bottle of wine for over £20. In today’s market there are plenty of great wines available for around £10, some for considerably less. So rest assured that you won’t have to drop a bundle of money to experiment with various wines. We will be more than happy to give you plenty of suggestions in your preferred price range.
Preference.
We all have preferences and they often change at a moment’s notice, but with wine preferences let them be swayed by what you will be drinking them with or who you will be sharing them with. For example, if you are hosting a happy hour get together, your preferences might lean towards “safe” reds and whites. For people that may not be accustomed to heavier-bodied, heartier wines, give them a break – buy a softer Merlot or Pinot Noir. For a white, who doesn’t enjoy a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc?
If you are seeking to experiment with a new varietal, then talking to your wine merchant about wines, styles and labels that you have enjoyed in the past and asking for specific recommendations should provide sufficient direction for another great find. If you are new to wines and are looking for a few suggestions – try a Riesling, Gewurztraminer, or a Chenin Blanc.
If you prefer a drier white wine then look for a Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc. As for reds, start with a Gamay, Pinot Noir, or Merlot if you do not want anything too complex or full-bodied. If you are looking to turn up the complexity meter, then go with a good French or Californian Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah (or Shiraz) or one of Italy’s big reds.
Pairing.
If you are looking for a wine specifically to pair with dinner tonight, then take into account what the key ingredients will be.
Will it be white or red meat?
Will you be using fresh or dried herbs and what types?
Will the dish be spicy or fruit-filled?
These questions can play a key role in deciding which wines will pair well with specific dishes. In general, white wines accent lighter flavoured meals really well; while red wines often compliment heartier meals a bit better. Keep in mind that pairing food and wine is 99% personal preference and 1% science!
