Wines to Always Keep at Home – A Simple Guide

The chances of your average wine drinker having a huge cellar are pretty rare. It’s even less likely they’ll have it constantly stocked with a variety of different wines, suitable for every person or occasion. Knowing which wines to serve at home can also be a challenge, especially if you’re not sure what your guests will want to drink or what meal you might be enjoying your wine with.

Here’s a simple guide on wines to have on hand in the home, for those unexpected occasions, or just because…

Pro tip: The important thing to remember is versatility is key. You don’t need to know the personal preference of each of your guests, choose something that most people will like.

Bubbles

You never know when there might be a reason to pop open some bubbles and celebrate. So, it’s always a good idea to have some sparkling wine on hand just in case. It doesn’t need to be fancy, (unless that’s what you’re in to) but with such a vast array of sparkling wines available from regions far and wide, from the complex to the easy drinking, there’s something to suit everyone.

For something classic, try a sparkling that has been produced using the Traditional Method or Methode Traditionelle. You might choose a bottle that has been aged. This allows time to develop some unique bready and toasty undertones. Yum.

For something less serious, it’s hard go past a fresh and crisp Prosecco. Not too complicated, but refreshing with citrus and green apple notes. Remember to keep it chilled so it’s ready to drink at any moment. 

Rosé

While this style of wine has gained in popularity over recent years, it’s actually a really great wine to have on hand as it pretty much can be matched with any food. The grape variety the rosè is made from is usually a good indication of how subtle or pronounced the fruit flavors will be, so if you generally like drinking Pinot Noir, grab a rosé made from Pinot Noir grapes. If you prefer something a little richer in red fruit flavors, choose a rosé made from Syrah or Grenache. There are many options available in stores from Provence in France, these tend to be quite subtle and neutral in flavor, so a good choice if you want to keep it easy.

Versatile White – Pinot Gris/Grigio, Riesling

While we don’t really pay attention to the old rule of only drinking white wine with fish or chicken, it’s good to keep a bottle of a versatile white wine on hand if you feel like something lighter in style to compliment your dish or the occasion.

Varieties such as Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio are an easy crowd pleaser. Both are the same grape variety, just made into two different styles of wine. The flavour profile is complementary to a wide range of foods and makes for an easy choice, and an easy drink.

If you want something with a bit more personality, why not try Riesling. Seeing a real resurgence in the last few years, Riesling is a great option if you want a wine that doesn’t necessarily need to be paired with a meal but easily enjoyed on its own.

Versatile Red – Pinot Noir, Sangiovese

Choosing a red wine can be overwhelming with all the very different styles available. If you’re looking for something versatile to keep on hand however, the easy choice is Pinot Noir. Choose one with a nice balance of ripe red fruit flavors. Not too tannic, and enough acidity to make it refreshing – you’re in good shape. Keep it light in style but with a nice intensity of fruit so it can be paired with anything from a pizza, to a steak. Sangiovese is also a safe choice for a wine that has just enough body to drink with or without food.

 So remember, versatility is key. Keep your wine selection at home simple, and you’ll never be caught with an empty glass again.

This is a sponsored post submitted by Wine Compass.