We all know I dig wine. Like here and here. Over the years my palate has matured and I try not to waste money (or calories) on sub-par bottles. I’m no sommelier or snob, but as I really do love a glass or two most evenings, I figured it’s time to invest in some higher-end accessories that compliment my new hobby. I also tend to pass bottles on that aren’t as good to my little brother, who is still happy to drink just about anything! Here’s some ideas to truly elevate your wine game at home.
Keep (Some) Wine Cool
I am all about the chilled wines. In fact, I even have Under Counter Wine Coolers UK and dabble in the faux pas of chilling a red wine sometimes, especially on hot summer days. But one thing most of us can agree on is if you serve champagne, cava, or prosecco, it needs to be over ice.
Whether you bring it to a picnic by the beach or just would like it chilled at home, it can vastly enhance the taste and flavor. I recommend having a Champ’cool insulated sleeve from Peugeot to ensure maximum cold temperature no matter where you go with your favorite bottle of bubbles. It fits the wide girth of these bottles specially.
Let Wine Breathe
If you’re going to invest in a decent red from Italy or France, you’ll want to ensure that it’s drank in perfect conditions. Many people swear by aeration of red wines, which allows oxygen to hit the liquid and open up the fragrance.
You can pick an elegant carafe that can double as a centerpiece, such as the Dahlia. It balances perfectly and pours well without drips. Hand-blown glass is just as sophisticated as the wine you’ll choose to highlight.
Pair Wine With Perfect Food
There’s nothing that bring out a great Merlot like a nice steak or portobello mushroom dish. Or on the other side, a nice dry rose with something filling and cheesy. Choose your food wisely, whether it’s light appetizer or pairings with a five-course meal. This may also be a guess-and-check situation for you to spend time on. If you have picky guests over, offer a couple different bottles to give a selection.
Big, delicious foods are great for upper echelon wines. A plate of fresh oysters over ice, sugary homemade cakes or a salty rainbow of charcuterie are my go-tos with favorite wines.
Pick the Perfect Bottles
Above all, make sure you invest a little bit of time to know your wine. First, get to know your grape varieties and blends to choose a few that are your ideal taste (I prefer light whites, roses and cabs). Then, consider a small wine journal to help keep track of the bottles and vineyards you like best, so you don’t continue to buy any duds.
Once this is sussed out, you can hunt for the best deals for premium types. I enjoy wine clubs now that I’m not as picky, but know which kinds I tend to enjoy. The Cellars Wine Club is a good place to begin, as they have a few options to cater to various needs. You can choose something simple like a monthly trio of bold reds, or really stock your wine fridge with a case of international favorites.
How do you indulge your wine? Do you like quality over quantity, or don’t have a real preference? Have you ever splurged on a really good bottle before?
