Getting Started

[georgiaB]

My husband and I are getting introduced to the world of wine. We have been researching all of the facts. However, with all of the wines out there, how do we know what to buy? Also, all the research won't promise us that a wine we have heard of will be on a restaurant wine list. Or will it? Do I really need about five sets of varying glasses? Is Reidel the best? Please tell me I don't have to throw out my beautiful green and tulip shaped glasses. Last question. Do certain years stand out as good or bad wine years? Thanks.

[Innkeeper]

Hi Georgia B, and welcome to the Wine Board. Hopefully, you will want to drink wine, most of the time anyway, with food. Try to develop a relationship with a local wine vendor. When you plan to eat something, ask your retailer what wine goes it. You could also caveat your inquiries to include wines likely to found on local restaurant wine lists.

Do not throw out those green and tulip shaped glasses until they break. You may want to add something else way down the line.

You also don't have to worry about vintages until you gain a lot more experiance. There are online vintage charts to guide you when you need them, and subscribing to a quality wine magazine such as "Wine and Spirits" will keep you up to date on vintages and new releases.

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 12-04-2001).]