New To Wine? Four Tips To Expand Your Knowledge And Palate

Have you been drinking wine for a while, though you remain unsure what you like and what you don't like? There are plenty of ways to expand your palate and learn which wines appeal to you the most. Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

Attend Wine Tastings

One of the struggles of learning more about wine is that you may buy a bottle, only to find out you don't like it. A better way to taste a lot of wines all at once, without having to invest in whole bottles, is to attend wine tasting events. These are often held at individual wineries and also at some wine stores. You can taste all types of wines, from Chardonnay to Merlot, to a Caymus wine. Once you find something you like, you can try more wines with similar profiles to further hone in your tastes. 

Order Wine With Friends Who Drink

Do you have friends who know more about drinking wine than you do? Go out to wine bars with these friends, and have them order for you. If you have been wine tasting already and have identified at least one wine you like, let your friend who what wine that was. He or she may then be able to recommend other wines that are similar and that you might like. Or, you can try a sip of your friend's wine so you don't risk ordering a glass you don't like.

Buy a Wine Book

Visit you local book store, and purchase a book that speaks of all of the different varieties of wine. Look for one that tells you which foods to pair with which wines. Then, when you buy wine to try on your own, you can be sure to buy the best foods to pair with it. This way, you will get to taste each wine at its best and you will truly know whether or not you like it.

Take a Class

You can also look for beginner-level wine classes in your area. These may be offered by local wine stores or even at a winery. Have friend come with you, and make a night of it! You'll not only get to learn about different wines, but also about the best ways to taste wines and pair them with foods.

If you follow the tips above, you will have an easier time expanding your palate and honing in on your real wine preferences.