How I choose a wine for Holidays

There's never been a better time to start discovering wines. The quality of winemaking is improving around the world. Now is the time to experiment, and to try new styles and blends.



What are the variables to think about when choosing a quality wine? 

· Colour: red or white, of course. Don't forget rosé - sales are booming year round. 

· Climate: if you are shopping for wines from warm countries then you'll often find the words 'cool climate' on the back label. Cool climate wines will be more aromatic and taste fresher. 

· Style: choose between the clear, pure fruit of an un-oaked wine (e.g. Te Henga Unoaked Chardonnay), or the complex character of a wine from a blend of varieties and matured in oak barrels (e.g Chateau Leboscq). 

· Vintage: Look for the youngest vintage if you are buying a young fruity white wine. Red wines aged in oak barriques will be sold with 2 or more years' age.

Most Popular Regions and Grapes

Country	Grapes
France	Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Grenache, Syrah,Viognier, Chardonnay
Italy	Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Moscato,Pinot Grigio
United States	Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir,Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel
Argentina	Malbec, Cabernet,Temporarily, Bonarda
Chile	Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc
Australia	Shiraz, Chardonnay
Germany	Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Sylvaner
Spain	Tempranillo, Albarino, Garnacha, Palomino
New Zealand	Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir
South Africa	Pinotage, Chenin Blanc

Reference:
Wine-for-beginners

Flowchart: How To Choose A Bottle Of Wine