Every wine connoisseur needs a good place to start. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been collecting for years, Wine Collecting 101: How to Start and What to Know is the perfect guide. Wine collecting offers an enjoyable and rewarding hobby, but it’s important to understand some basic principles of collections before taking on the task.
Before diving into the world of collecting, it’s critical to understand which types of wines you’d like to collect and why. Do you prefer red wines, white wines, sparkling wines, or a combination of all three? There are numerous varieties and styles of wines to explore, so identifying which type you’ll be interested in will make the deciding process much easier. Once you’ve figured out the type of wine you’re most likely to collect, it’s time to do some research and educate yourself.
Reading books about wine collecting can provide valuable insight into the basics of collecting and how to properly handle and store your bottles. Knowledgeable wine collectors often recommend reading up on the various types of wines available, as well as studying the labels to familiarize yourself with what you’re buying. Additionally, many people find it helpful to attend wine-tasting events or join a wine club to get acquainted with specific wineries and their products.
Of course, understanding and researching the basics of wine collecting isn’t all that is needed to begin. For starters, you’ll need to decide where to store your bottles. Keep in mind that wine should be stored away from light, heat, and extremes of humidity or dryness. Many people opt to install a wine cellar or invest in a cooling system, while others store bottles in a cool, dark corner of the house, or in the basement.
When you’re ready to start purchasing wine, it’s important to consider the cost and value of each bottle. If you’re new to wine collecting, it’s best to begin with lower-cost bottles and work your way up. If you visit a wine merchant or attend a tasting, always ask for advice and recommendations. As you become more knowledgeable, you’ll be able to identify quality wines that fit within your budget.
Getting to know the wine market and setting a budget are essential pieces of the wine collecting puzzle. It’s helpful to pay attention to prices and vintages, as well as the reputations of individual wineries. Knowing the current market prices for wines will help you to recognize good deals when they come along. Additionally, keeping track of what bottles you’ve collected and where they are stored will help keep your collection organized and accessible.
Finally, if you’re interested in learning more about wine collecting, there are numerous online and offline resources available. Online communities and forums, such as those found on Reddit, provide invaluable advice and support. Many cities also boast local wine clubs and organizations, which offer additional educational opportunities.
Whether you’re just getting started with wine collecting or are an experienced enthusiast, Wine Collecting 101: How to Start and What to Know provides all you need to build and maintain a successful collection. With the right information and commitment, anyone can become an expert at collecting fine wines.
As you embark on your wine collecting journey, remember to keep track of financial data and store records. Storing receipts, invoices, ratings, notes, and other documentation related to your collection will help you stay organized and in control. Keeping illustrated records of each bottle also makes it easier to catalog your collection, as well as ensure its security.
When storing your bottles, make sure they are laid down to ensure that the sediment remains undisturbed. Ideally, the temperature and humidity of the storage area should remain constant. If not, consider investing in a wine cooler or cellar to keep the bottles at the right temperature. Air conditioning systems can also help to maintain a proper environment.
If you’re looking to enhance your expertise in wine collecting, there are also numerous awards and certifications available. The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), for example, offers various levels of qualifications depending on your knowledge level and experience. Note, however, that certification courses can be quite costly and may not be suitable for everyone.
Of course, wine collecting isn’t just about acquiring and hoarding bottles. Sharing your collection with family and friends is a great way to enjoy your wines and make lasting memories. In addition to tasting the wines in a standard setting, consider hosting a themed party or a wine-pairing dinner. This will not only provide an enjoyable activity for everyone, but it will also help begin conversations about your special collection.
Finally, while there are many tips and tricks to becoming an expert collector, it’s important to remember that this should be a fun and enjoyable hobby. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to acquire or possess rare and expensive bottles—play around with different tastes and learn as you go. Before you know it, you’ll be a bonafide wine connoisseur in no time.
