A lot of thought can go into choosing that perfect bottle of wine. But when presented with dozens of options, that decision isn’t always easy. Whether you need to brush up on your wine knowledge, or you’re simply stuck in a rut, trying something new doesn’t need to be difficult. Why not choose a bottle of wine based on your favourite flavours? We’ve put together a quick guide to show you how to choose wine:
If you like coffee…
Or more specifically the earthy, rich and slightly bitter flavour and aroma of espresso, then you’ll love a Shiraz. It’s considered a heavyweight wine with peppery and spicy flavours. The wine is powerful and rich with a velvety smooth finish – perfect for those that like their coffee strong!
If you like red fruits…
You’ll like Pinot Noir. It’s produced from red grapes and is typically lighter than other red wines. It has fruity flavours and aromas such as cherries, raspberries and strawberries. It can also have a slightly perfumed aroma mixed with a slight earthy and herby flavour. Ideal for those that like the taste of sweeter red fruits.
If you like black fruits…
Then a Tempranillo could be the one for you. With fruity flavours similar to black cherries, plums and tomatoes, the wine is medium to full-bodied and has an earthy aroma with a smooth finish.
If you like citrus flavours…
You’ll enjoy a Chardonnay. Depending on the climate, Chardonnay can have more tropical flavours such as orange, pineapple and grapefruit. The origin of the wine also plays a part, and means it can range from light and zesty to creamy with coconut and vanilla flavours.
If you already have a favourite but would like to branch out and try something new, give the below a try…
If you like Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll like Rioja.
Rioja has a similar structure to Cabernet Sauvignon, which is why many people often like both. If you enjoy the taste of red fruits that come through in a Cabernet Sauvignon then you’ll love a Rioja as it is said to be even more aromatic. The Spanish wine draws on prominent flavours such as cherries, raspberries and strawberries.
If you like Merlot, you’ll like Grenache.
While Grenache doesn’t taste exactly like Merlot, there are certain similarities that can be appreciated. With both, raspberry flavours are present although with Grenache there are hints of strawberry, citrus and cinnamon present.
If you like Pinot Noir, try Gamay Noir.
Gamay Noir is similar in taste to Pinot Noir and is a light-bodied wine. It has tart flavours that is enhanced by red fruits such as cherries, raspberries and plums. It also has earthy notes complimented by delicate floral aromas. Often more competitively priced than its counterpart, it’s worth trying as a refreshing alternative.
If you like Pinot Grigio, you’ll like Albariño.
If you find yourself reaching for the Pinot Grigio, how about switching out for an Albariño? Popular in Spain, the dry white wine is crisp with citrus flavours and peachy, floral tones. The aromatic wine has fantastic acidity, and is a firm favourite in the summer months.
If you like Chardonnay, you’ll like Riesling.
Slightly lighter than Chardonnay, Riesling wines are defined by their fresh taste. With apple, peach and pear flavours prominent throughout, this wine manages to be both sweet and crisp. There are also delicate aromas running through such as honey, jasmine and lime.
Finding the right wine can mean tapping into what you already know you love, and leaning towards similar flavours and aromas. Give it a try and see what you discover! Make sure you ask these questions while you’re at it.