When you go to buy some wine for your guests coming over for dinner, or perhaps a dinner party to celebrate your new house, it can be tough choosing the right one. Testing wines at a vineyard in the yarra valley is always a good choice to know what you are buying, but in our busy lifestyles we can’t always have a weekend away. There are many types of wines to pick, and sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming. Try to always to remember to consider the price, the preference, and the pairing. Below are some handy tips to help you choose your perfect wine, and to amaze your guests with your great choice of wine.
Price
The price you are willing to pay (or not pay) to get a bottle of wine is a key deciding factor in choosing a wine that is ideal for you. Gone are the days when you can only get a “good” bottle of wine for more than 30, there are plenty of cheaper wines to choose from that can be just as good!
In today’s market, there are plenty of great wines out there for approximately $15, some for considerably less. So rest assured that you won’t have to lose a bundle of cash to experiment with several wines. A nice wine merchant will have the ability to give you a lot of suggestions on your stated price range.
Preference
Ahh, preferences. All of us have them and they frequently change in a moment’s notice, but with the taste of some wines, can let your guests be tricked by the type or price of the bottle even if it is not a type of yarra valley wine, and what you will be drinking and shared with them does not have to be specified. By way of instance, if you are hosting a happy hour get together, your tastes might lean towards “safe” whites and reds. For people that might not be used to heavier-bodied, heartier wines, give them a rest – purchase a milder Merlot or Pinot Noir (sometimes known as “Starter Reds”). For a white, who does not like a refreshing Gewurztraminer? If you are trying to experiment with a new varietal, then speaking to the local wine retailer about wines, styles, and labels, that you’ve loved in the past and asking for specific recommendations should provide adequate direction for another good find.
If you are new to wines and are searching for a couple suggestions – try a Riesling, Gewurztraminer, or a Muscat dessert wine if sweeter wines match your fancy. If you want a dry white wine then search for a Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc. In terms of reds, beginning with a Gamay, Pinot Noir, for milder tannins and more forward fruit or Merlot and Zinfandel for a fuller-bodied wine with dense dark fruit. If you are wanting to turn up the sophistication meter, then proceed with a great California Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah (or Shiraz if it is from Australia).
Pairing
If you are looking for a wine especially to match dinner tonight, then take into consideration what the key ingredients will be. Will it be red or white meat? Will you be using fresh or dried herbs and what forms? Will the dish be hot or fruit-filled? These queries can play a key role in deciding which wines will pair nicely with specific entrees. Generally, white wines accent milder flavoured foods really well; while red wines often complement heartier meals somewhat better. Remember that pairing foods and wines is 99% personal preference and only 1% science.
