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How to Build a Respectable Wine Collection One Bottle at a Time

Build a wine collection that not only shows off your wine - build one that shows off your life!

by Wine Taster
published: 06 Apr 2009       | Comments

What comes to mind when you think of a wine collection? If you're like most, you think of a temperature controlled cellar below an enormous home that contains a collection of really expensive bottles. Most people think a solid wine collection is simply out of their reach. That's not true. You don't need deep pockets to appreciate wine. You can build an impressive collection one bottle of wine at time. And don't let size intimidate you; your collection can be one bottle of wine you love, a single wooden rack, or even a bottle of wine or two on the kitchen counter. It's your wine collection and all it has to do is suit your taste.

So, where should you begin? The silly thing to do is to run out and buy a wine rack, then fill it with bottles as fast as you can. Each bottle of wine should be a reflection of you, your mood or the occasion. In order to build the perfect wine collection, you have to start tasting one bottle of wine at a time. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Don't be a one hit wonder. Variety is the spice of life, and this tired axiom is true for wine as well. Don't be afraid to get wines from different regions, vintages and price points. Try different styles and varietals and find out what you like. Be experimental and have fun! Each bottle of wine has a story waiting to be told. Fill your collection with a variety of wines and stories.


• Like fashion, wine is seasonal, and you should be stylish with your choices. Choose the appropriate bottle of wine for the season. When spring arrives, have that crisp and fresh sauvignon blanc bottle ready. Hot summer days might call for a chilly, fruity rosé. Bring on the Beaujolais and pinot noir in autumn and warm up in the winter with some zinfandel and cabernet sauvignon. But like any fashionista, you shouldn't be afraid to break from tradition. Wear white in winter and feel free to open deep, rich red bottle of wine in August - if it suits your mood.


• Pick your favorites and keep them in stock. After some fun experimenting, you'll soon have a bottle of wine or two of your own to call favorites. Make sure you keep them in your collection and replenish them. Do not be afraid to share them with friends. The best way to learn is by having them try your wines while you try theirs!

Don't forget that wine is about celebrating life, food and friends. A bottle of wine is more than something you serve at dinner; a good wine bottle is a direct reflection of your life. Build a wine collection that not only shows off your wine - build one that shows off your life!