So, you want to get into wine?
An approachable guide to discovering new wines, stepping out of your comfort zone, and drinking with curiosity.
The easiest way to learn about wine – and luckily also the most fun way – is to drink it. Seriously. For anyone wondering how to get into wine, forget endless lists of grapes or confusing tasting notes; the best way to understand wine is by exploring it with a glass in hand. Before going full ‘wine nerd’ and taking my WSET Level 1 & 2 in wine, I learned about wine by simply trying it – buying something new at my local supermarket, venturing beyond my go-to bottles at restaurants, and attending tastings.
Here’s the reality: a lot of people who are into wine are also scared to branch out. They stick to what they know, afraid that trying something new will be a flop.
But you’re not going to learn anything new if you keep buying the same bottle of Merlot from Tesco every week. Yeah, I know it’s under a tenner, and I know that you like it. And look, there’s nothing wrong with it – I’m sure it’s fantastic. But there are so many other wines, also under £10, to explore that aren’t just your go-to. And if you want to learn, then you’ve got to try them.
Same wine, different region
So…you like Sauvignon Blanc. Let me guess – a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, perhaps? It’s a classic for a reason. But if you’re picking up bottle after bottle of New Zealand Savvy B every time you go out, you’re doing yourself a disservice. New Zealand might be known for its Sauvignon Blanc, but have you tried exploring the same grape from other regions – like the Loire Valley in France, or South Africa? If switching things up feels intimidating, shopping by region is the perfect way to dip your toe into the puddle of change. You’ll discover new flavours, and maybe even a new favourite.
Small independent wine bars are your friend
That trendy wine bar you’re intimidated to go into? Don’t be. Small independent wine bars and shops often have the friendliest and most knowledgeable staff around – and the best part? They want to talk to you about the wines they stock. Tell them what you like and that you’re looking to try something new, but similar in style. They’ll guide you through a few options, and more often than not, you’ll walk away with a cracking glass of wine – and maybe even a bottle to bring home.
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Travel, explore, and drink like the locals
Spanish wine has been a favourite of mine for as long as I can remember. It’s massively underrated (but that’s a story for another day) and honestly, some of the best out there. My love affair with vino español began simply because I’ve spent a lot of time in Spain. Whenever I’m booking a trip, I automatically think of exploring a new Spanish city. I love the culture, the food, the drink, and the atmosphere – also helps that it’s the only language other than English I can semi-communicate in.
The point is, I know Spanish wine because I’ve drunk a lot of it – right from the source. My rule is simple: wherever you go, eat and drink like the locals. Rioja might be the Spanish wine you’re most familiar with(I know it was for me), but a lot of Spaniards reach for Ribera del Duero, or another wine local to their region. And that’s something I wouldn’t have known without travelling and asking what’s regional.
Here’s a tip: whenever you travel, head to a local wine bar and ask what wines are local to the region. Explore, chat, enjoy – travel far, drink local.
A little knowledge, a lot of tasting
Knowledge might be power, and yes, it helps you get into the nitty-gritty of wine, regions and grape varieties, but you don’t need a lot of it to simply enjoy a glass. An open mind and a curiosity for different flavours, styles and wine regions will take you far. If you’re just beginning to explore wine, stick with the tips above and enjoy the discovery process. And if you’d like a little boost to get you started, my wine cheat sheet below will help you along the way.
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