College student needs help.

[wineguruchgo]

Hello American Dream,

Come back here often and ask as many questions as you like. That's why we are here.

The wine world isn't easy, but it sure is fun.

My advice to you is to visit your local retailer and see if they have a mailing list you can get on. I know they do tastings in Michigan. That is the best way for you to begin without spending the money on bottles.

If you want to dabble and spend just a little bit of money, I would limit yourself to two different varietals and don't spend more than $7.00 per bottle to start. Pick up a Merlot and a Pinot Noir. Open both. Pour them, look at them (you will see a noticable difference) and try the Pinot then the Merlot in that order. You will begin to recognize the difference immediately.

Being that you are in college actually helps you with this. If you have a few buddies who are interested, each of you pick up a different bottle (Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet and Syrah) and do a tasting. This way you will be able to see the difference, not spend a lot of money and get a nice buzz as a bonus!