Branch Out and Enjoy Wines from Around the World

There are so many great wines being produced throughout the world that choosing a wine may seem overwhelming. The good news is there are many resources to help find that new, perfect wine!

The best way to enjoy wines from around the world is to open a bottle from the region you’re interested in and taste the wine.

But given geographical limitations and recent gas prices, we can’t just casually head over to South Africa to taste a particular wine.

With that in mind, you can also find a wealth of information regarding wine countries and regions around the world on the Internet. Type in a winery and you’ll more than likely find information regarding its particular wines—the best way to review particular regions is to speak with your local wine store consultant regarding your particular wine regions of interest.

Wine is being produced in every state within the United States as well as most countries around the world. The wines in “Old World” countries such as Italy, France and Spain among others have typically been best when paired with food. But more recently, many of the “Old World” winemakers have been blending many of their wines to bring more fruit forward and appeal to consumer that would like to have a nice patio wine that is not necessarily paired with a meal.

Right now, we are enjoying a period where some of the best vintages of wine are being produced. 

There has never been a time when so many great wines are available to basically every consumer. Italy has been turning out great wines that are very well accepted in the U.S. market; Bordeaux is currently making some of their best wines ever and wines are now readily available around the world at great prices.

Branch out from your current wine and try some new varieties from around the world to truly enjoy what is happening in the wine world. Try a variety of price points after discussing with your local wine store expert to examine what is available from around the world.

Reviewing new wines and exploring the different offerings that are available does not have to be a difficult process. Many consumers new to wine or trying to better understand the wine varietals and styles can be guided by a few simple principles.

• It is always good to review the top six major grapes in the wine world.
• The main white wines are Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
• The main red grapes are Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

One of the best analogies regarding understanding wine choices are related to milk–yes milk. 

• Skim milk can relate to Riesling (White) and Pinot Noir (Red).
• Whole milk relates to Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot.
• Heavy cream is related to Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

This gives a tactile sense to wine – it is related to texture and not about the wine or the food.

This is a great time to enjoy some of the best wines ever produced. Go out and try some new wines from around the world and from a variety of wine regions within the United States. Summer is calling and wine can help make the best of our gatherings sure to fire up this summer!

Local Events 

• Please check out the various tasting events that are scheduled in your area at http://www.localwineevents.com/.
• WineStyles in Bolingbrook is featuring a wine and cheese Pairing Thursday from 6-8 p.m.
• On Friday, Binny's in Bolingbrook will host a Summer Sippers and Great Grillers event from 6-8 p.m. Find your go-to wines for summer.
• On Saturday, a “Sweet to Bold” wine tasting will be held at WineStyles in Bolingbrook from 2-4 p.m.