Most people have never heard of an oenophile; however, that is the correct designation of someone who is a connoisseur of wine. For people who love their wine, it is not only the taste of their favorite vintages and types of wines that is at the core of their obsession, but also the origins of the wine, including specific estates where the grapes are grown and where the wine starts off its journey to the glass and onto their palettes.
Oenophiles are people who love everything about wine, including those that just enjoy the odd glass here or there. These connoisseurs provide essential insight into which wine of the month clubs provide the best wines for both beginners and experts alike. Oenophiles love to discuss which are the best wine clubs online that deliver the highest-quality wine available anywhere in the world.
In fact, the publishing of books by these wine experts is a multi-million dollar business. In these publications, they provide information to the man on the street about recent releases from some of the most famous vineyards in the world, as well as wines to watch as they mature.
So if one were to take an in-depth look at what serious wine drinkers drink – what would be the result?
According to Wineaccess, firstly it is important to note that an individual’s taste in wine is a very personal choice. What some may enjoy others may not. However, some of these experts may provide valuable insight for those who want to expand their wine drinking habits.
With that said let’s take a good look at what serious wine club drinkers drink.
Although there are numerous types of both red and white wines available let’s limit ourselves to some firm favorites that those serious about wine drink. Let’s first take a look at some options for red wines.
Some of the best red wines in the world are sourced from the Loire Valley or Burgundy in France and shipped to people in America by the many online monthly wine clubs. Experts and vineyard owners agree that for those who want to expand their horizons the types of wines that are available from this region are an excellent place to begin exploring.
As far as Pinot Noir is concerned the French have mastered the art of creating this lightly colored acidic red that always seems to bring something new to the palette. The nose often features hints of cherry, cranberry, and raspberry.
As far as French wines are concerned a great option is the Nuits-Saint-Georges Tribourg 2012. Another exceptional choice is the Pinot Noir Couvent des Jacobins – Louis Jadot 2013
However – it is important to note that there are a number of ‘New World Pinot Noirs that provide exceptional value. These wines are produced in countries such as New Zealand and Chile – and the United States also makes some very good Pinot. Try the award-winning Errazuriz Aconcagua Costa Pinot Noir 2014 from Chile or the Seresin Home Pinot Noir 2010 from New Zealand.
Another extremely popular variety of red wine is Syrah. Full-bodied and bursting with flavor the nose brings to mind chocolate and plums with perhaps a hint of tobacco. Fantastic choices include the Driehoek Shiraz 2014 from South Africa which has built an enviable reputation as one of the premier wine producing countries in the world.
For those interested in delving further into the world of red wines both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are also extremely rewarding.
Moving on to white wines.
Chardonnay remains incredibly popular among experts and casual wine drinkers alike. It is definitely at the more luxurious end of the scale so it is perhaps more suitable for the evening. Some of the best are ‘New World’ At the 2017 Chardonnay du Monde competition wines like the Summerhill Chardonnay Icewine – VQA Okanagan Valley BC 2014 from Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Canada and the Origen Chardonnay Gran Reserva 2016 from Chile scored gold medals.
Of the ‘Old World’ wines, the judges also awarded gold medals to the French for both the Champagne Gruet Chardonnay Brut 2013 and the Chablis Premier Cru Montmain 2015.
For a lighter, more tart white wine experience Chablis is perfect. A great choice among those in the know is the 2015 Vaillon Premier Cru Chablis from French vineyard Domaine Christian Moreau.
Of course, white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc are also recognized by experts as being perfect choices for summer drinking. Try the Honig Winery’s Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc produced in California.
What serious wine drinkers drink and the wine of the month clubs they subscribe to can offer great insight into what you should at least be trying out. However, wine is an entirely individual choice. Try not to be limited and explore the wonderful world that opens up for those with a little adventure in their wine drinking souls.