Where to begin?

Thanks a 10^6!

The advice was priceless. I will get a book or mag. next time I'm out.

Again Thnks!

Cheers

^_^ L

Nils makes very good points. I might add if you are in an area where stores sponsor tastings, that's a good way to taste a variety of wines (although tastings 5- 50 wines back to back might not be easiest way to learn!). In any case, there's no substitute for drinking wine regularly (and paying attention when you do). Good luck! Dale

Dale Williams Drop "damnspam" to reply

I agree that white wine can be so cold that it almost tastes like water. I like my reds, in what I like to call, the Medieval Way, which is around room temp. My companions can't stand it that way...

There are a couple of stores that have tasting[s] every Saturday. However, I have a crippling fear of looking like a complete and total ass :)

You guys/gals are great!

Andy and Tom,

I think this is one of those where manners must occasionally meet practicality. This subject just came up the other night, as it happens...

What Tom says is certainly true from the Emily Post perspective. Also, with very delicate glass, one can lift the bowl from the stem! I've the unfortunate experience of doing this, when young, with one of my Dad's 18th century venitians (no not california). He was nice about it but since I always lift from the stem. I imagine some of the Reidels could come apart like that too.

But, if the wine is too cold, a little hand warmth can really help. Like Andy I rarely remember to "chambrer," and in any case (as well known to afw regulars!) my house is very cold. So with our regular glasses we don't hesitate to cup them, and the wine appreciates it.

-E

I think most people from my generation should keep in mind that the traditional serving of red wine at "room temperature" means a cooler temperature than we think. Back when that was "established", rooms were more like 60 degrees. I think that's a good temperature to drink reds, by the way.

It's not a matter of being more correct. I disagree that saying "I don't know why" is acceptable. You don't have to know what "firm finish" means, but if you cannot ever describe what you like and don't like to the guy in the wine store, you're not going to get very many good recommendations for your next bottle.