How to Buy Wine Properly at Wine Stores
Ever found yourself in front of a large shelf of wines, unable to decide which bottle to get and not knowing where to even start? Buying wine can be daunting, especially if you’re not particularly a wine drinker. That’s why we’re giving you these tips on how you can confidently purchase a bottle of wine and make the most of your trip to the liquor store.
Do your research
Finding anything is much easier when you know exactly what you’re looking for. So, before you head to the wine store, try doing your research.
Look up information such as wine varieties and popular wine regions. The most helpful thing to know is the kind of flavours you prefer in your wine. If the purchase is for a gift, make sure you know the flavours that your recipient likes.
A quick look online can help you narrow down your options when you’re buying wine, eliminating some of the intimidating factors from the purchasing experience.
Consider the occasion that you’re buying wine for
Context is incredibly important when choosing a wine to buy. Are you buying wine for a quiet night in? A gift? Or is it a large celebratory occasion?
If you’re looking for a bottle of wine to open at a casual gathering, consider purchasing lighter wines like Pinot Grigio or Merlot. Dinner parties would require a wine that pairs well with the food, so try to find out what is being served before you make your purchase. Richer red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon work well with heavier dishes, while a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with salads or seafood.
Know how much you can spend
There’s a bottle of wine for everyone no matter how much you’re willing to spend. All you need to determine is your budget.
Remember, expensive wines don’t always guarantee high quality. There are plenty of affordable bottles of wine that offer great taste as well as quality, so there’s no need to break the bank just to get a “good” bottle.
Some wine stores will also be classified according to price, and if you’re shopping online, it’ll be even easier to find budget-friendly options that taste just as fantastic as premium bottles.
Don’t forget to ask for help
No matter how much research you’ve done before going to the wine store, it’s always easier to pick a wine when you have a little bit of help.
If you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to ask the staff at the store for advice. You can let them know your budget and preferences, and they will lead you to the bottle that comes nearest to your needs.
Pay attention to the wine labels
Often, all the information you need about a wine can be found on the wine label. Most labels will tell you the wine’s region, grape variety, and alcohol content. These are three basic facts that can help you make your purchasing decision.
Regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and Tuscany, are known for producing quality wines. Familiarise yourself with the various profiles of different grape varieties so that you know which bottles to reach for. Additionally, alcohol content can affect the wine’s body and flavour, so consider whether you want something light or bold.
Buying wine in-store vs. online
Whether you’re making your purchase online or in-store, there’s no right or wrong way to buy wine. Each comes with its own perks.
In stores, you can inspect each bottle for yourself and ask for advice from the staff. On the other hand, shopping online is more convenient and allows you access to a wider selection of wines. It really depends on which method suits you better.
Buying wine doesn’t have to be complicated. By doing a bit of research, setting a budget, and seeking advice, you can buy wine that suits your taste and occasion. You can find your perfect bottle of wine in stores at your nearest Red & White!
