Wine is intimidating, especially if you’re new to it and everyone around seems to know more than you! There are so many wines to choose from, each made with a different blend of flavors and fruits. Getting into the basics of wine however isn’t difficult. All you need is some guidance; after all, you have to begin somewhere!
The experts at Artisan Excursion have put together the top wines a beginner needs to taste:
This sparkling wine is known for its similarity to champagne. Made from the Glera grape, this sparkling white wine is infused with bubbles and a fruity flavor. It’s a sweet wine, making it ideal for someone who hasn’t yet developed a taste for dry wines.
The flavors of this wine will remind you of lemon and green apple, taking you back to your childhood. Unlike other wines, Prosecco has no tannin and therefore this wine doesn’t have that bitter flavor. Prosecco is also among the top sparkling wines and is considered by some as a dessert wine.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is known for its clean and subtle flavor. What makes this wine great for beginners is its soft flavor. Its fruity flavor is easy on the tongue and can be consumed easily by those trying wine for the first time. Pinot Grigio works perfectly with seafood and can be consumed on its own too.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay, contrary to popular belief, is actually the name of a white grape and the wine is named after it. There’s a wide variety of grapes out there and each is used to prepare a unique kind of wine. The flavor of chardonnay is best described by apple and pear flavors, with a hint of oak, butter, and surprisingly, toast!
Chardonnay is, however, a dry wine. That means it isn’t sweet like Prosecco. Since it has no tannin, this wine doesn’t have bitter notes, but it can be acidic.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a red wine that’s risen to popularity in recent decades. This wine is also light, especially in comparison to other full-bodied red wines. Known for its berry and cherry notes, this wine is also low in tannin, even though it’s red. Pinot Noir is considered the best wine for those who love white and are looking to move to red.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a level above Pinot Noir. This wine has a richer and full-bodied flavor. Its high acidity level as well as tannin level gives this wine it’s flavor and slight bitterness too. Cabernet Sauvignon has notes of chocolate, coconut, warming spices, and vanilla. Unlike the other wines on this list, you have to ease your way into Cabernet Sauvignon.
Artisan Excursion is your ticket to great tasting wine in Solvang. Located in the heart of the wine valley, this company provides wine tasting tours in Solvang to locals as well as tourists. They provide wine tastings, wine pairings, as well as a fabulous lunch to guests. Contact them at 805.734.7565 for more information about their services.