perature” which is generally about 50 degrees. Equally
important is the serving temperature. On the whole,
American’s consume white wines too cold – resulting
in closed, tight, uninteresting, flat-flavored wines – and
red wines too warm – yielding “hot,” alcoholic, burned,
over-cooked flavors.
Based on a starting point of 50 degrees:
Whites – refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours prior to ser-
vice. Initial pours will be chilled; optimal flavors of the
wine will be displayed as the wine begins to warm by
way of ambient room temperature. Place wine in a
ceramic bottle holder for dinner. The wine will hold a
good temperature of roughly 45 degrees in the chiller
and “open” in the glass it will warm to 50 – 55 degrees
as you enjoy the wine.
Reds – remove from “cellar” storage (50 degrees)
about 20 minutes prior to service allowing the wine to
warm. Optimal enjoyment level for reds is between 62
and 66 degrees.
pen to spill some wine, it is important to know how to
save yourself, your clothes and maybe the relationship.
Typically, you can blot the spill with a paper towel then
immerse it in soda water, blot it again and then apply a
baking soda paste.
4.
Use the right wine glass
Scientific studies have been done and there is a method to the madness. Red wine glasses are generally
larger and have a bigger bowl. White wine glasses are
narrower and taller. There are some companies that
make glassware that is specific to the type of grape
that a wine is made from, such as Cabernet Sauvignon
or Bordeaux glasses.
5.
Storing wine for the special
night
The basic rule of thumb for wine storage is “cellar tem-
12
6.
Wine can be considered an
aphrodisiac
As with any alcohol, wine has been known to increase a
person’s sexual desire and has been used for centuries
as a natural aphrodisiac. In particular, red wine is rich in
resveratrol, a form of antioxidant which increases estrogen production. In general, wine helps people relax
while also stimulating their senses.
7.
Great relationships mean
go ahead and buy in bulk
If you’ve found the person of your dreams and the
wine he/she loves, don’t be afraid to buy in bulk. Nothing like a great glass of wine and good conversation
with that special person!
8.
Wine and Chocolate
Do not have the chocolate sweeter than the wine
February 2014
INSIGHT