Understanding Wine

Articles about wine fundamentals including grape varieties, terroir, and buying guidance. Topics range from vintage classifications to proper tasting techniques and serving temperatures.

Buying a Box of Wine Instead of a Bottle

Wine boxes hold four bottles' worth in less space, keep wine fresher longer, and cost less than bottles, making them ideal for casual parties and holidays.

Buying Wine

Most wine shoppers buy from supermarkets or chain stores, but independent wine merchants offer staff expertise and quality you won't find on big retailers.

Different Types of Grapes in Wine

Most wine comes from one grape species that's been bred into dozens of varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Riesling.

Non-Alcoholic Wine

Non-alcoholic wine tastes like regular wine but without the alcohol, making it a real option for people who want to enjoy wine's flavor without the effects.

Terroir and the Growth of Vines

How soil, climate, and geography shape wine character through the French concept of terroir.

The Conventions of Tasting Wine

Wine tasting relies on more than just your taste buds—here's how to properly appreciate a wine using all your senses.

Tips and Advice on Serving Wine for Optimum Enjoyment

Get the right temperature, decanting technique, and serving tips to bring out the best flavors in any wine.

Vintage Wine

The year a wine was produced affects its taste and quality, but modern farming has made vintage less important than people think.

What Are Blended Wines?

Blended wines mix two or more grape varieties to create different flavours, and they're just as good as single-variety wines.

What Are Varietal Wines?

Varietal wines are made from at least 75% of a single grape variety, and new world producers use these names for marketing while traditional French wines.

Wine Bottles

Glass bottles are the best way to store wine, with regional designs and cork stoppers that keep it fresh and protected.

Wine Lingo

Understanding the language wine people use to talk about taste, body, and flavor helps you join the conversation.