Q&A: Wine & Food Questions
Wine Newbie
I have decided it is time I become a wine connoisseur or at least learn what I like, the best wine to serve with my dinner ,and the correct glass to serve it in. Where do I start?
Answer From Expert Becky Sue Epstein
This is (the beginning of) a great question from a wine beginner.
First: decide if you like white or red wines RIGHT NOW.
Then, every time you GO OUT, try a glass of a different type of that wine (red or white). And ask the server or wine director which dishes it goes best with.
OR pick something you like to eat and ask which glass of your favorite type of wine (white or red) pairs best with the dish.
After you have done this a few times, and you find something you like, CALL your local wine shop FROM DINNER and ask them to save you a bottle. (You think you'll remember the wine when you go in to the store, but nobody does.)
BUY an all-purpose wine glass with a thin rim and a bowl that curves in at the top.
COOK (or TAKE OUT) a dish similar to the one you had at the restaurant.
ENJOY your new wine with dinner.
REPEAT, REPEAT, REPEAT...
About The Expert
Becky Sue Epstein is an experienced lifestyle writer and editor, concentrating on wine and spirits. For the past twenty years she has provided food, wine and spirits coverage for local, regional, and national publications including Art & Antiques, Food &
Visit Becky Sue Epstein's web site
Answer From Expert Roger C. Bohmrich, MW
If you are really serious and want to build a solid foundation, then I would recommend a wine course such as WSET (Wine & Spirits Education Trust - wset.co.uk) which can be taken by "distance learning" or at one of the designated centers in the US. You can take this course to an advanced level if you want.
If you don't want to invest the time in a full-fledged course, then you can start by attending tastings sponsored by retail stores or wine societies. A good reference book such as the latest edition of "The World Atlas of Wine" (Johnson & Robinson) is a must as it is important to gain an understanding of the characteristics of the world's major vineyards, grape varieties, and wine types. Of course, you can simply start buying wines from different regions, referring to the atlas as you taste. The key is to try as many wines as possible to discover what you really like. Good luck - it's a fun journey!
About The Expert
Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade as an importer and retailer, and at present he is an educator, speaker and consultant. He set up and managed Millesima USA, a New York merchant affiliated with Europe's leader in direct sales of fine wines to consumers. Previously, he served as senior executive of Frederick Wildman & Sons, traveling regularly around the world to visit wineries and taste the new vintage from barrel. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993.
Visit Roger C. Bohmrich, MW's web site
