Essential Tips for a successful wine purchase

The art of selecting the perfect wine extends beyond the simple act of pointing at a bottle and making a purchase. Your choice of wine can significantly influence the atmosphere of your celebration, dinner, or casual get-together. To ensure you derive maximum enjoyment from your vinous adventure and make your wine purchases a success, heed the following advice.

Selecting the Right Store

The store, whether virtual or physical, plays a pivotal role in your wine-buying journey.

Online Purchases: Virtual buying may not offer insights into the wine's storage conditions. Rely on previous online purchasing experiences or friends' recommendations.

In-Store Purchases: When buying in person from a wine store, supermarket, or any other outlet, several considerations come to the fore:

1. Conservation: Wine is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. A location experiencing temperature swings from 16°C in the day to 11° - 12°C at night, especially with humidity levels below 50%, risks deteriorating the wine over time.
2. Light Exposure: Direct light is detrimental to wine quality. Continuous exposure for 12 hours daily can compromise the wine's integrity.
3. Storage: Ideally, bottles should be stored horizontally or at a slight angle. This keeps the cork moist, preserving the wine. While vertical storage may be commercially appealing, it's not the best for wine longevity.
4. Expert Advice: Always welcome the opportunity to consult with a wine professional. Inform them about the dishes you plan to serve, your personal wine preferences, and the number of guests to get tailored advice.

Choosing the Right Wine

Having settled on a store, your next focus is the wine type, influenced primarily by the dishes you intend to pair it with. While professional advice is invaluable, there are general rules to help ensure your wine complements your meal seamlessly.

Examining the Bottle

Often, the bottle can offer clues about the quality of its contents:

• Quality of Glass: A well-made bottle with quality glass usually hints at a premium wine.
• Bottle Base: A deep indentation at the bottom often indicates a higher-quality wine.
• Capsule Fit: A capsule that fits snugly around the bottle neck ensures the preservation and, by extension, the wine.

Budgeting for Your Purchase

The cost is an undeniable factor. Set a realistic budget aligning with your expectations. In the up to $25 range, there exists a vast array of commendable wines, encompassing whites, reds, rosés, sparkling, and more. Always compare prices, pay attention to special deals, and consider the vintage according to the wine type.

By adhering to these simple guidelines, you'll reduce the risk of disappointment, ensure your wine is the toast of your celebrations, and most importantly, enjoy a delightful wine experience surrounded by family, friends, or guests.