It is so easy to fall into a rut when it comes to picking wines whether at a restaurant or toting to a social gathering or sipping at home. We are all creatures of habit and tend to gravitate toward the same old thing. One of the problems contributing to this is that many of us are intimidated by the seemingly mile long rows of wines from places we don't know, and made from grapes we can't pronounce. I understand, believe me.
I find it difficult to drop a chunk of change on something I don't even know I am going to enjoy. However, at some point we have to take chances, and often it is rewarded when it comes to vino! Everyone has their threshold beyond which they are not willing to venture financially, and a $30, $40, or $50 bottle of wine is just not in the cards for some. The good news is that there are plenty of wines that are absolutely incredible at every price level. The way to find them is to ask questions when at the stores, or restaurants, as well as to (shudder to think) do a little research! Read up on wines. If you like one wine, find out from what it is made, where, and by whom. Then look for others in the same region, using the same grapes, etc.
For those of us who have been blessed with a great group of friends all having a certain propensity for popping corks it could not be easier to learn about wines. However, it takes a little bravery. Some people join wine clubs and share what they receive. Others just take a chance at the liquor store and buy something they have never had before. These are great ways to learn about wine, as long as you pay attention, and not just take what was handed to you in the glass, throw it back, and move on to the next one. It really helps to think about it (at least for the first couple, then it gets a bit dicey I must admit) and take note of not only what you like, but what you do not like. Knowledge is power.
A recent find that has been a great example of branching out is Mas De Maha. This tempranillo blend from Paso Robles was introduced to Kristi and myself by Greg Bosworth and marks a branching out point for him. I will let him correct me if I am wrong, but I believe he took a sommellier's word for it on this wine and ended up seeking it out and getting a half case later on. The important thing for me about this is that Greg generally likes big jammy zinfandel, but learned that he also loves a good spicy tempranillo.
It is fun to watch someone get into wine from the beginning and see their natural curiosity at work. Mike "Peach" Dunlap had barely ever touched a glass of wine two years ago. Since then he has gone from cautious skeptic to enthusiastic sampler of just about anything you might pour. What's great is that he is extremely honest about whether he likes it or not after a fairly open minded tasting and has been pretty curious to know more about the ones he likes.
Let's be honest, what could be more fun than having to try a variety of wines? With proper restraint and responsibility it doesn't hurt at all and in my opinion does make life more interesting and enjoyable, especially with friends and family.
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