good first wine

[barnesy]

kmb,

what is it specifically that you DIDN'T like about the Berringer's white zin and the arbor mist?

Most newbies start off only liking the sweet wines, maybe you're not one of those folks and we directed you in the wrong way. If you're more specific about what you didn't like, maybe we can go in the other way and find something you will like.

Barnesy

[pamelah148]

Thanks KC ,I have learned alot from this site in just the short time I've been a member. I am so appreciative to all those who answer this wine dummy or newbie as you guys call it. One more question does this make it a better tasting zif compared to newer vines and can you tell me who processes these types of wines and what to look for when I'm looking at labels that would give me a hint they are from old vines.

[wondersofwine]

Old vines often produce better grapes, thus better wine. Part of it is that the yield (number of grapes per cluster or vine) is less with older vines, so the grapes get more of the nourishment through the deep roots and more exposure to sunshine. Most vines don't even produce enough grapes for making wine until their fifth or sixth year and old vines (thirty, fifty, even seventy years or more) are valued for their grapes with concentrated flavor. In the United States many producers will mention "old vines" on the label, particularly with Zinfandels. In France the phrase is "Vielles Vignes" or just "V.V." Red Burgundy wine (from the Pinot Noir grape) also benefits from old vine and root stock.

[pamelah148]

Thankyou wondersofwine, that was very interesting. I will keep my eyes open for these and try one. I guess it takes time for fine wine.