If you keep on-hand Champagne or Sparkling wine, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, both U.S. and French, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon - you’re set. There are a multitude of vineyards and price ranges for each varietal that can be purchased from Wine.com
or
PrimeWines.com. Some of our favorites can be found on our site at Our 100 Best Wines. However, a little shopping at either or both sites is worth the time.
Once you’ve purchased your essential varietals, it’s most important to store and care for them properly to maintain their character and balance. A small rack that holds your treasures horizontal, with minimum vibration, and placed in a location that can maintain a relatively consistent temperature between 55°F and 65°F is just fine. Too much heat will cause the wine to rapidly artificially age your wines. You don’t need a fancy cellar for just a few bottles of wine. However, a little attention to their care will ensure drinkability when called upon.
Finding the ‘right’ wines is a matter of tasting and experimenting until you find those favorite labels that will begin to form the foundation of your must have wines collection and will certainly please any guest’s taste. Happy hunting!!
You can purchase wine essentials by visiting our guide to wine selection. Also consider joining our mailing list to receive our free wine and food-pairing tips.
- Michael Zanatta
Michael is a freelance writer and wine connoisseur whose family vineyards are in the Veneto region of Italy.
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