Opening a web browser with an online bottle shop is like stepping into a library when you don’t know what book you want. You might arbitrarily click on drinks and pull books from the shelves but you don’t really know what you’re doing. There are loads of different types out there – and types within types. It’s time to understand your preferences and find YOUR tipple.
Understanding Preferences
You’ve been eating and drinking for many years so will have developed some preferences that will help. Your taste buds are unique, and what pleases one person may not impress another. Taste, after all, is the subjective perception of flavour.
Flavour Profile: Are you drawn to bold, smoky notes or the subtle sweetness of a fruity bouquet? Pay attention to your taste buds in the next few days and how they react to things.
Occasion: The setting matters. Perhaps downing shots of vodka isn’t the best approach for a family dinner.
Food Pairing: The right drink can elevate a meal to extraordinary heights. Learning about ideal pairings can add an enjoyable layer to the dining experience.
Exploring Wine Options
You’ll find wine from all over the world – you no longer need to travel to taste different wine.
Varietals: Get to know the most common grape varieties – Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and others – each offering distinct characteristics.
Regions: Different terroirs produce variations that become landmarks for quality and style.
Tasting Notes: The language of wine can be complex, but with practice, you can discern notes of oak, earthiness, or the telltale tingle of tannins.
Craft Beer Selection
Craft beer is almost like wine now because there are so many different styles and things.
Styles: From IPAs to stouts, lagers to ales, the spectrum of flavours within each style is vast.
Breweries: Many craft beer enthusiasts are loyal to their local brewery, a testament to the unique expressions each establishment offers.
Flavour Profiles: Learn to distinguish the hoppy bitterness of a pale ale from the roasted richness of a porter.
Tips for Decision Making
When faced with the decision of what to order or stock in your home bar, these tips can guide you toward a satisfying selection:
Recommendations: Look up from your phone and talk to the bartender or your friends.
Experiment: You’re not going to find anything new if you’re not willing to try (sorry!).
Education: Expand your palate and knowledge by attending tastings, reading about different beverages, and, if possible, visiting distilleries, vineyards, and breweries.
Follow our advice today and put your brave hat on to try new things. You might not like some things, even some things that are really popular, but you will like others. You might surprise yourself and end up shopping for Jack Daniel’s or a Vodka Cruiser mixed 10 pack. Remember, the perfect beverage is the one that brings joy to the moment and companionship to the conversation. Cheers to your newfound voyage of discovery!