Beginner

[onyx]

Hi, I am just getting started with wine tasting. I am not very knowledgeable in regards to wine. What are the basic things that I need to know? How do I know what wine to drink when I am at a dinner. Do I start with red or white? Please help.

[Innkeeper]

Hi Onyx, and welcome to the Wine Board. Your best bet is to get a good book on the subject. There are many available. One of the very best is last year's book by Andrea Immer, "Great Wine Made Simple." It lets you taste your way through the wine world, and gives great hints for ordering in restaurants.

It is now available in full hard back version for $17.50 from Jessica's Biscuit. Their reference number is #00502. You can reach them at: Tel. 1-800-878-4264, Fax: 1-617-244-3376, or www.ecookbooks.com .

[winecollector]

When I got back into wine collecting, I found "Wine For Dummies" very helpful. It covered the basics, and did not get to technical.

I also suggest attending wine tasting where they also serve food with the wines being offered. That way, you can experience first hand how wines can compliment different types of food. Have fun!