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The world of wine is exciting and interesting yet it’s also really rather big – and sometimes intimidating. Not only are there over a thousand different grape varieties used to produce wine commercially, when selecting a wine, there are countries and regions to take into consideration, too. While we may not all become a Master of Wine, there are some steps you can take that will have you swirling your glass and reeling off tasting notes in no time at all.
Here are our 5 key tips to becoming a wine expert:
Wine tasting is a bit different from wine drinking, as it’s about romanticising what’s in the glass and really taking your time to think about it. How it looks, smells, and tastes. You should also consider how it feels when you drink it. Does it feel acidic? Does it feel grippy and drying? Is the flavour long lasting or finish as soon as you swallow?
If you really want to take your wine tasting knowledge to the next level, the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (or WSET) can’t be beaten – that’s why every single one of our store colleagues works towards being professionally accredited with a WSET from level 1 through to Diploma level.
For a budding wine enthusiast, there’s no better place to shop than one of our Majestic Stores. Each day, we open a select few bottles of wine for customers to taste and our WSET-trained colleagues will take you through every sip and bottle. It’s the perfect way to try a diverse range of wines before you buy. And after you’ve made your purchase, don’t forget to ask for your tasting notes for a bit of extra reading.
It’s easy to drink what we know we like. New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is always going to be zesty, tropical and delicious, but there are plenty more wines to discover. It’s time to get out of your comfort zone and choose a new wine to try, whether it’s a grape you haven’t heard of before or an expression from a country you haven’t yet explored yet. If you always drink Burgundy Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, perhaps start trying styles from Germany, South Africa, or Australia. Each region has something different to offer – and there’s so much enjoyment to be had in discovering something new.
Not all great wine needs to come in a flashy bottle and cost the earth. There’s plenty of brilliant wines available at all price points. We all have different tastes and preferences so don’t be afraid to try an unusual grape variety that someone else has turned their nose up at or a wine that perhaps doesn’t ‘look the part’. As the saying goes, ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’. Our stores regularly host tasting events to showcase new and exciting wines – ask your local store to sign you up for their next event and broaden your palate even further.
Even the best minds in the world of wine are constantly learning. We’re lucky that there are more grape varieties being discovered, wineries popping up in new regions, and more wine available on the market than ever before. Wine is a journey. You may not know every single grape variety in the world but with each bottle, there’s something new to uncover – and you might even surprise yourself.
Here are some exciting – and unusual – wines to get you started on your journey.
Romania is where insiders look for great value, great tasting Pinot Noir. This Pinot punches way above its price point – and the 2020 vintage was awarded 90 points by Tim Atkin MW. This is a wonderfully approachable wine with notes of fresh black cherry, raspberry, and cinnamon. Try its juicy flavours with a classic charcuterie board.
Meerlust were the pioneers of Bordeaux varieties in the Cape, and were the first to produce their iconic, award-winning wine, ‘Rubicon’ in 1980. It has ripe flavours of red berries, plum, and subtle spice, complemented by hints of oak and a touch of earthiness.
Armenian wine isn’t something you often come across – yet Armenia is actually one of the world’s oldest winemaking countries. Smooth and mellow, this ruby red wine is bursting with wild cherry, plum, pomegranate, blackberry, and delicate spice.
If you like Pinot Grigio, how about tasting a Pinot Gris from England? Established in 2007 by Winemaker Simon Woodhead, the vineyards and winery are situated in the historic Stopham Estate in Sussex. Made from 17 year old vines, it's juicy and fresh with tropical aromas.
Tbilvino aims to become Georgia's premier winery, crafting exquisite wines from ancient indigenous grapes while honouring the timeless Qvevri winemaking method, rooted in an 8,000-year-old tradition. Made in a fruit-forward style, expect floral aromas alongside bold flavours of forest fruits followed by an elegant, fresh finish.
