Wine Time

[Bobert]

Which wine do you prefer. I included only the most popular.


(Crap, forgot White Bordeaux/Semillon.:irked:)

[darynthe]

I don't see any poll. I don't have a favorite brand. Just red wine. Maybe I should get into a tasting course to learn to appreciate it better.

[dylanamus]

I don't see any poll. I don't have a favorite brand. Just red wine. Maybe I should get into a tasting course to learn to appreciate it better.

The poll appeared a second after you posted hehe

Oh and they're not brands, per se. They are names given to different production processes (including ingredients and even the material barrels and such are made from). There are many variables that lend unique qualities to each type of wine. Not that I'm an expert, but you should definitely go on a wine tour if you enjoy the taste. They usually supply cheese too. Mmmm and the vineyards that host the tours sell their produce extra cheap. It's win/win!

[dalidaisy]

Meh, I like red wine, too. I picked the ones I purchase the most frequently, but I like a variety. I also grew fond of Reisling whilst living in Germany. It's somewhere between red & white wine.

[une fille]

I vote Merlot. I prefer red wine to white and rose, definitely.

[Brittle]

I'm really into sparkling reds at the moment, but merlot is probably my preferred style, closely followed by shiraz.

I also love a good wooded Chardonnay, they're a world apart from the unwooded. Much fuller and mellower.

[Bobert]

For bubblies I love Asti (muscat grape).

[altoid]

For bubblies I love Asti (muscat grape).

Yes, me likey. I've been getting into Prosecco lately as well.


I'm really into sparkling reds at the moment...

I'd never had a sparkling red until I had a sparkling Shiraz paired with a meal I had not long ago. I really enjoyed it.

[azelismia]

the walla walla appellation is superior.

[JTG1984]

Pinot Noir, Merlot

[Harmony]

Hmm my absolute favorite wasn't in there (I'm not real skilled in wines so correct me if I'm wrong, haven't developed the taste yet, working on that!)... I'm mainly into Spumante (sparkling wines).

So I went with second fav... Chardonnay/White Burgundy

[Bobert]

Spumante = Asti, generally speaking, which is made from the muscat grape.

I only listed still wines, although I didn't specify sweetness. There are so many wine to chosse from.

BTW, quite the attractive avatar, Kim.

[Harmony]

Yeah, I noticed it was Spumonte/Sparkling Wine/Asti... Why so many names!?

I tend to stick to the sweeter wines.... Although... We got a very awesome spiced wine on vacation.....

[Bobert]

Champagne, technically speaking, only comes from the Champagne region in France. All others are considered sparkling.
Asti is a place in Italy. I think spumante means sweet, but I'm not sure.

[Harmony]

Would certainly make sense. The one Spumante I had was from Italy... And it was like drinking Sprite.... But laid me out on my couch after two glasses. :p <snickers> When it comes to wine I'm a lightweight!

[endless]

I used to run a wine shop.

I like those that utilise the Mourvedre grape...typically Chateauneufs but it is also found in some South African toilet cleaners.

Aside from that...White Mercurey (a Burgundy...Chardonnay)

[qwerty123]

Hmm, where to start.

I don't know if a simple poll can qualify member's wine interests. There are times when an oaked chardonnay might be excellent, or a Syrah/Shiraz might be more appropriate.

In the end, while there are all sorts of "recommendations" wine preference comes down in individual likes and dislikes. Wine is a great way to develop/expand ones palate. Other good areas are: coffee, tea, beer, and clearly food.

As with many things, there are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to wine. It is easy to get lost in the various rituals associated with wine and wine consumption. People often smell the cork, which serves little purpose. (It smells like cork!) There is a lot of misinformation, as well as rampant wine snobbery.

Fortunately, (aside from current economic difficulties) we're in a great time to get into wine. Unlike a few decades ago, new world wines are cheap, available, and of high quality. Many laud old world wines, but the truth is new world wines are a better place for a beginner to start. To get similar quality, one must spend far more on a French/Italian counterpart. Old world wines are often more complex, and if you can’t connect A to B, how are you going to cover A through M.

Local wine shops can be great resources, or terribly misleading. Many will hold free weekly wine tastings. The wines being tasted can be selected based on established weekly criterion, or they can merely be wines that the store is trying to clear off the shelves. It shouldn't be hard to discern the difference. A fantastic resource for beginners is "Wine for Dummies." It is highly informative, accurate, and it gives an introduction to the truly immense world of wine.

As Bobert correctly stated, a "Champagne" is from the "Champagne" region of France. Spumante means "sparkling" or "effervescent". The Asti variety is of lower alcohol (around 7%) and thus inherently sweeter. Europeans have very strict laws governing nomenclature, and knowing the entire system often requires a lifetime of study. Another misconception regarding champagne is that it’s only appropriate for large celebrations. A good champagne, while more expensive than a comparable wine is an amazing thing. I was turned off by cheaper California sparkling wines, but then a friend introduced me to Moet et Chandon's "White Star" (recently renamed Imperial). It's about $40 a bottle, and unfortunately for my wallet I loved it.

Basically, France is conservative, the "best" wines in the world come from there, usually very cellerable reds from Bordeaux, as slew of other wines, and Champagnes from "Champagne." New world wine comes primarily from the US, Australia, and South America. Climate plays a critical role in the wine, as does basically every step in the process. It is amazing to look at aerial photography, and taste differences in wine from opposite sides of a riverbank, or hill.

I am by no means an expert, only a (freshly) budding enthusiast. I will try to avoid snobbery, with the ultimate goal of accurate knowledge dispersal. Feel free to PM me with questions, or continue the discussion here.

(Clearly this topic has struck a cord.)

[Synamon]

I like all wine. Different wines at different times; a cold, dry Rosé at 4 pm on a hot afternoon, an aged Bordeaux with roast beast, a slightly sweet Gewurztraminer with spicy mexican food, a young Sangiovese or Côte de Rhone with pasta, Champagne with lobster, etc, etc. I choose all the options. :blush:

[Cthulhu]

I'm not much of an oenophile, but I like a glass of Shiraz or Gewurtztraminer every now and then. I enjoy ice wine too, although a little of that goes a long way.

And where are the poll options for MD 20/20 and Night Train?

[Bregen]

*frantically searching*

Port would be my first choice. Gewurztraminer is wonderful with food. Riesling is also a favorite. Not a big fan of heavily oaked wines.

[BlackOp]

Hmm...depends if I am just drinking or pairing with food. White - Sauvignon Blanc or Viognier. Red - Bordeaux and Pinot Noir.

[WaeV]

Based on the limited samples given to me by my parents, red.

[Bobert]

I used to run a wine shop.

I like those that utilise the Mourvedre grape...typically Chateauneufs but it is also found in some South African toilet cleaners.

*Snob Alert* Châteauneuf-du-Pape is predominantly grenache. (Let me know which uses Mourvedre.) Thanks :)) - It's like bordeaux, a lot of varieties are 'allowed'.
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I don't know if a simple poll can qualify member's wine interests.
Hence the multiple vote allowance. Poll's are limited to 20 selections. Additionally, including all styles and varieties wouldn't be very interesting except to a few people.


(Clearly this topic has struck a cord.) Dou you think? LOL!

========
On another wine related note, I prefer value wines. $20-$25 tops, unless it's a classic (say 95+ points), then I'll pay a few dollars more.
I don't believe wine should cost more than $5 a glass. I don't own a Viper or Ferrari, and I don't buy premium gas regularly either.
(I live in a control state (PA) which means we get screwed royally when it comes to wine, i.e. limited selection and 18% + 7% taxes. That's what caused me to learn how to make my own.)





Bobert added to this post, 2 minutes and 9 seconds later...

Based on the limited samples given to me by my parents, red.

Now that's what I like to hear! :cheesy: Seriously.

I like red. I like white. I don't know which I like more though. Too many options.

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[qwerty123]

On another wine related note, I prefer value wines. $20-$25 tops, unless it's a classic (say 95+ points), then I'll pay a few dollars more.
I don't believe wine should cost more than $5 a glass. I don't own a Viper or Ferrari, and I don't buy premium gas regularly either.
(I live in a control state (PA) which means we get screwed royally when it comes to wine, i.e. limited selection and 18% + 7% taxes. That's what caused me to learn how to make my own.)


My price range is similar. I try to avoid wine in restaurant settings. Standard markup is 250%. I don't get a lot from a $5 glass of "house red." Occationally I'll jump for a glass of something I want to try though.

I don't own a viper or Ferrari, but my car does take premium gas (sadly).

As I am in NH, I am quite fortunate. PA is bad, NY is bad. I've never made my own.

[BlackOp]

I don't get a lot from a $5 glass of "house red."

+1...its interesting when people who have limited exposure call those that do "snobs". I would bet the majority have an educated opinion on Coors Light vs. Heineken. There is a big difference between cheap ($5 to $12) and decent wine ($18-$30). After $30...the drop off is more subtle. There are some "drinkable" bottles @ $10-$12 but you have to know what you are looking for.

Some good experiences that come to mind...Caymus, Duckhorn, Ridge, Cakebread, Kistler, Matanzas Creek, Grgich Hills. I am terrible at remembering French and Italian.

[PeterIMC]

Which wine do you prefer. I included only the most popular.


(Crap, forgot White Bordeaux/Semillon.:irked:)

The simple answer would be for me: The type that has alcohol in it... but I guess that covers just about all of them.

I prefer red wine over white wine and it's better if it's a bit on the sweet side, but not too much. Is that enough information for you to tell me which wine(s) fits me best?

[qwerty123]

+1...its interesting when people who have limited exposure call those that do "snobs". I would bet the majority have an educated opinion on Coors Light vs. Heineken. There is a big difference between cheap ($5 to $12) and decent wine ($18-$30). After $30...the drop off is more subtle. There are some "drinkable" bottles @ $10-$12 but you have to know what you are looking for.

I'm sure they do have opinions. I just try to find things I like. I look for people who care about the wine, not about what others think about them. People can be jerks with anything (I’ve met obnoxious Ferrari drivers, and ones who were awesome). It just seems that wine has a high incidence of snobbery.

And as you know, price and quality varies greatly by origin. There are some very drinkable new world wines for $9-12 a bottle. If you wanted similar quality from France... be ready to start probably mid $30’s.

A lot of people drink very expensive wine without the ability to tell it apart from cheaper wine. They gain something from being able to afford it. Which with my economics background is fine. If they perceive it as valuable I can’t say anything. But as you stated, there are certainly diminishing marginal returns as price increases.

[dylanamus]

There's something I find attractive about women who enjoy red wine. The cost of the wine they appreciate is completely unimportant to me though. Perhaps because I frown upon pseudo-elitism and perhaps because you can actually find delicious reds in Australia for under $10.

[endless]

*Snob Alert* Châteauneuf-du-Pape is predominantly grenache. (Let me know which uses Mourvedre.) Thanks :)) - It's like bordeaux, a lot of varieties are 'allowed'.
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white. I don't know which I like more though. Too many options.

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There are three major grapes used in Chateauneufs, yes the Grenache is popular, typically married with Mourvedre...a very common combination actually...Syrah/Shiraz is often found with them aswell, but as you pointed out the appellation allows for many different varieties to be used, thirteen in total...interesting too because it has one of the highest minimum alcohol percentage requirements.

Mourvedre is incredibly rich, and produces a wine that is not to everyone's taste.

I'm surprised you didn't make more of a note of the white I mentioned, white Mercurey is relatively hard to find (compared to other white Burgundies at least) and I'd recommend keeping an eye out, they are getting better every year and in my opinion already compete with the best grand cru Chablis by taste and at half the price you can't go wrong.


I'm not a snob, I just had to run a shop, it was interesting learning about wine I had to goto 'wine school,' where a friend and I drank nigh on 14 glasses of various wines then wandered to the pub afterwards for a couple of beers.
Besides I live in the 'posh,' part of England.

[reb]

i voted 'merlot'; but frankly, i like the franzia 'chillable red' in the box. a wine kannasewer, i am not. let it reach room temp, some tillamook cheese, a cracker or three....a slice of apple...yum! even an orange or 'nanna, for that 'sangria aftertaste'. this 'meal' has been my favorite, sometimes with sardines, since i used to backpack extensively. a couple hours sweating, a decent rock or log with a view, and this is like ambrosia to me. the best place i ever enjoyed wine was the 'snake river birds of prey' area in idaho...sitting at the base of the cliffs, slurping cheap red.....just call me 'zorba'.

[qwerty123]

perhaps because you can actually find delicious reds in Australia for under $10.

+1

Wines like that are a great way to get started, and are great when you're into wine. They won't break the budget, and they're very enjoyable.

[Hanfgeist]

If its not Barolo , I'm not drinking it ;-)

though truthfully I like most reds from Tesco's three buck chuck called Hollywood, to £4-£5 zinfandel and up to the £12 a bottle aforementioned Barolo which is beautifully smooth....and have tried a dessert wine which cost £18 a bottle and tasted great...

[Bobert]

+1...its interesting when people who have limited exposure call those that do "snobs". I would bet the majority have an educated opinion on Coors Light vs. Heineken. There is a big difference between cheap ($5 to $12) and decent wine ($18-$30). After $30...the drop off is more subtle. There are some "drinkable" bottles @ $10-$12 but you have to know what you are looking for.


I started out with inexpensive wines, then went into premium wine ($40+) for a bit. Now I'm a value hound.

The simple answer would be for me: The type that has alcohol in it... but I guess that covers just about all of them.
LOL!

====


I often look to Australia & Chile (and NZ) for value wines. I like California wines, but IMO a lot have become overpriced for the volume they produce.

[dylanamus]

I often look to Australia & Chile (and NZ) for value wines. I like California wines, but IMO a lot have become overpriced for the volume they produce.

I can also attest to the quality of affordable wines from Chile. I generally don't enjoy whites, but I've had a few Chilean blancs and they were delicious too.

Casillero Del Diablo is an excellent value Chilean wine maker. You can't go wrong with any of the reds for the price you pay ($5-15USD)

[rara avis]

My standby is Riesling.

Some good experiences that come to mind...Caymus, Duckhorn, Ridge, Cakebread, Kistler, Matanzas Creek, Grgich Hills. I am terrible at remembering French and Italian.

Cakebread's a great name. It always sounds like something I'll like, and then everytime I have a glass, I am reminded of how simple-mindedly suggestible I am. :laugh: It's never as good as actual cake/bread.