It is of interest to note that some people prefer one type of wine or wine from only one region. Others like many different wines from all over the world. As I travel to hundreds of wineries and vineyards per year, I have the opportunity to taste thousands of wines. Although I do have favorites and am always anxious to taste a local Cabernet Sauvignon or Riesling, I am always on the lookout for something new. I discovered that I would never turn down wines made from Grenache, Sangiovese, Syrah, Tannat, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, or a Cabernet Franc Icewine as well as many others grapes.

I like the discovery of wines. I first discovered Vernaccia while staying in Tuscany at a vineyard near San Gimignano. Since it was after harvest, I was able to trek through the vineyards and taste the remaining grapes. Vernaccia is a major white grape in that region of Tuscany. It is also on the menu at the Tomato Palace so I was recently able to have a bottle with our dinner. Perhaps part of the discovery of a wine you enjoy is connected to the environment, food and people.

As my wine experience grows I like more and more wines. Others may like fewer and fewer. Good places to try different wines are winery and vineyard tasting rooms. However there are educational opportunities available at local colleges and more formal education classes offered through organizations such as Wine and Spirits Education Trust. As you taste more wines do your preferences narrow or broaden?

Educational Opportunities

Community College Class
WSET Wine and Spirit Education Trust Class