A Comprehensive Guide to Wine: Wine Types, How to Drink for a Fraction of the Cost, and Organic Versus Natural with Sommelier Kellie Martin
Overview
Join me in this episode with certified sommelier, Kellie Martin, as we discuss how to pick a wine in the store, the difference between manufactured and craft wines, and the organic and natural wine movement. Kellie provides tips on finding the best bang for your buck wines and explains how to determine the sweetness of a wine just by looking at the label. Kellie also shares valuable insights on wine storage, emphasizing the importance of keeping wine away from light, heat, and vibration.
What you'll learn in this episode:
00:05 | Intro
01:40 | Definition of a Sommelier
04:41 | Tips for picking a wine in the store
09:49 | Importance of looking for lesser-known regions and grapes
10:58 | Navigating a wine shop
12:27 | Explanation of the grape Gamay
18:52 | Regulations in the wine industry
19:47 | Nutrient labeling on wine bottles
20:17 | Additives in wine
25:25 | Differences between manufactured and crafted wines
31:17 | Organic and biodynamic certifications in winemaking
35:20 | Natural wine movement
42:44 | Nitrates in wine.
45:08 | ABV as an indicator of perceivable sugar in wine
46:05 | Drinking window for different types of wines
51:41 | Proper storage of wine to prevent breakdown
52:35 | Storing wine properly
Resources:
Use code VANNA for 20% off at SommSchool Website
Kellie's Instagram.
The Art of Choosing Wine: A Sommelier's Guide
Welcome to the Mom Guilt podcast. I'm your host, Vanna, and today we have a special guest, Kelly Martin, a certified sommelier, who will be sharing her expertise on all things wine. In this episode, we will delve into the world of wine selection, exploring how to pick the perfect bottle at the store, the difference between manufactured and craft wines, and the organic and natural wine movement. Kelly will also provide tips on how to drink certain wines for a fraction of the cost and how to determine if a wine will be sweet just by looking at the label. So grab a glass of your favorite wine and join us as we embark on this wine-tasting journey.
The Sommelier's Perspective
Kelly Martin, our guest today, is a certified sommelier with years of experience in the wine industry. She has a passion for making wine education accessible to everyone and believes that everyone has the right to confidently raise their glass and join the wine family. Kelly explains that a sommelier is a wine expert who can help you choose the perfect wine based on your preferences and the occasion. They have extensive knowledge about different grape varieties, regions, and winemaking processes, allowing them to guide you in selecting the best wine for your taste.
How to Pick the Perfect Wine
Choosing a wine at the store can be an intimidating experience, especially with the vast selection and varying price points. Kelly shares some valuable tips on how to navigate the wine shop and find the best bang for your buck. She advises bypassing the front section of the store, as this is where the most marketed wines are displayed. Instead, venture further into the store and look for the lesser-known grape varieties and regions. These wines often offer excellent quality at a more affordable price.
According to Kelly, "But most wines, you want to operate within that drink. Current vintage, you can hold some whites, three to five years, reds five to eight maybe. But after that, it's not doing you any favors." She also warns against storing wine in the kitchen, as the light, heat, and vibration can cause the wine to break down too soon. "The things that will cause a wine to break down too soon are going to be light, heat, and vibration. Light, heat, vibration. Those are going to break down a wine and cause it to go bad soon," says Kelly.
Kelly suggests looking for wines that are not at eye level, as these are more likely to be the best bang for your buck. She recommends exploring the Cabernet section if you enjoy that varietal. However, if you're open to trying something new, she suggests looking for lesser-known grapes with similar profiles, such as alianico from southern Italy. These wines offer a similar structure and flavor profile to Cabernet Sauvignon but at a more accessible price point.
For those who prefer to stick with Cabernet, Kelly advises exploring lesser-known regions like Margaret River in Australia. These regions produce high-quality Cabernets that are often overlooked, allowing you to find exceptional wines at a fraction of the cost. By venturing beyond the familiar names and exploring lesser-known grapes and regions, you can discover hidden gems and expand your wine horizons.
Understanding Organic and Natural Wines
The terms "organic" and "natural" are often used in the wine industry, but what do they really mean? Kelly explains that organic wines are made from grapes that are grown without the use of synthetic chemicals. However, there are still regulations and guidelines that winemakers must follow, allowing them to use certain approved chemicals in limited amounts. While organic wines offer a more environmentally friendly option, they can still vary in quality and taste.
On the other hand, natural wines are produced with minimal intervention and without the use of additives. This movement emphasizes a low-interventionist philosophy, allowing the wine to express the true character of the grapes and the land. Natural winemakers avoid the use of chemicals in the vineyard and additives in the winemaking process. However, it's important to note that there is no official certification or regulation for natural wines, making it challenging to determine the quality and consistency of these wines.
According to Kelly, "All wines are natural to some extent, as they are made from grapes and yeast. The winemaking process is a natural fermentation process that occurs with or without human intervention." However, the natural wine movement has gained popularity in recent years, with a focus on minimal intervention and a hands-off approach. While natural wines can offer unique and interesting flavors, it's important to be aware of the potential variation and unpredictability that comes with these wines.
The Implications and Future of Wine Selection
The world of wine is constantly evolving, with new trends and movements shaping the way we choose and enjoy our favorite wines. The rise of organic and natural wines reflects a growing consumer demand for more sustainable and environmentally friendly options. As people become more conscious of what they put into their bodies, they are seeking wines that align with their values and preferences.
Kelly emphasizes the importance of educating ourselves about the different certifications and regulations associated with organic and natural wines. While these wines can offer unique and exciting experiences, it's important to remember that not all wines labeled as organic or natural are created equal. The best way to ensure you're making an informed choice is to research the winery, understand their winemaking practices, and seek recommendations from trusted sources.
As the wine industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more emphasis on sustainability, transparency, and consumer education. Winemakers and sommeliers like Kelly Martin are working to make wine education more accessible and empower consumers to confidently navigate the world of wine. By understanding the different grape varieties, regions, and winemaking processes, we can make more informed choices and discover new and exciting wines that suit our preferences.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, choosing the perfect wine involves a combination of knowledge, exploration, and personal preference. By venturing beyond the familiar and exploring lesser-known grapes and regions, we can discover hidden gems and expand our wine horizons. Whether you prefer a crafted wine from a small winery or a natural wine with minimal intervention, the key is to find a wine that brings you joy and enhances your overall wine-drinking experience.
Kelly Martin's insights and expertise as a certified sommelier provide valuable guidance for navigating the world of wine selection. Her tips on how to pick the perfect wine, understanding organic and natural wines, and the implications and future of wine selection offer a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
As wine enthusiasts, it's important to stay informed about the latest trends and movements in the industry. By embracing sustainability, transparency, and consumer education, we can make more conscious choices and support winemakers who share our values. So raise your glass with confidence and enjoy the journey of discovering new wines and flavors. Cheers!