There’s nothing as confusing as standing in a supermarket aisle trying to select a bottle of wine for your party or your loved one. While French wine stands out as a perfect choice, you should focus on what you really want and the notes you enjoy most. So where to start with wine selection? Here are some tips from expert sommeliers that you will benefit from.
1. Get to the basics
It would take forever to master all the ins and outs of the French wine world. However, you must learn the basics to select the right wine. For example, regions with colder climates are popular for producing high-acid, light-bodied wines. On the contrary, wines from southern regions tend to have more body.
If you like Chardonnay and Pinot, your best bet is to opt for the Burgundy appellations of origin. For those who love tannin-rich red blends, Bordeaux will suit your occasion perfectly. You can consult different options and buy champagne wines at millesima-usa.com while you are in the comfort of your home.
2. Check your price
How much are you willing to spend on that bottle of wine? France is popular for producing some of the most expensive wines in the world. However, tasty and affordable options can still be found, especially in southern regions such as Beaujolais. If wine options like Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre are expensive, consider purchasing spicy wines from Touraine. They are all refreshing options that have lower prices compared to their higher counterparts. Whatever budget you have in mind, you will definitely be able to find a bottle of French wine that fits your needs.
3. Read sommelier reviews and recommendations
By definition, a sommelier is a trained wine professional whose specialty is serving, storing, and even pairing wines. Most of them work in fine dining restaurants and high-end wine bars. The best thing is that it is not necessary to go to these establishments to receive their recommendations. Check out the pages and social media accounts of renowned French wine sommeliers online and see what they have to say. Don’t forget to read the reviews on these platforms and find out what other people think about your favorite bottle of wine.
4. Don’t be afraid to diversify and experiment
When trying new wines, it’s very easy to find yourself repeating the same French bottles. Although you feel safe, there is much more excitement when discovering new options. Unlike other wines, French wine bottles usually have the region and designation of origin. Some of the popular categories include Bordeaux, Burgundy and Chablis. Consider different French wine regions and producers until you find your preferred options.
Conclusion
As you can see, finding the right French wine for your event shouldn’t be difficult. Start by having a good understanding of the basics, especially in the appellations of origin and the different wine regions. While you may not know all of them, know that the southern and northern parts do not produce the same wine. Secondly, your budget will determine the bottle of wine you get, as some can be quite expensive. With the different types available, you can always avoid confusion by contacting sommeliers to determine which one is ideal for your occasion. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment until you find that special flavor that your buds appreciate.
