General Wine & Wine Club FAQ

General Wine & Wine Club FAQ Related Information:

What is a wine club?

A wine club is a group or organization that is made up of members with a common interest – wine. Most professional wine clubs charge subscription fees, and in return are able to provide members with access to hard to find and top quality wines from around the world. You have to be 21 years of age or older to join a wine club, and these clubs offer wine related news and information as well as wines from major wine regions from around the globe.

What are the benefits of joining a wine club?

There are many benefits to joining a wine club, although it depends on which club you join and what sort of package you have. You can get to sample wines from around the world as well as wines that are hard to find. You may also get large discounts on wine purchases and wine related events, as well as access to news, reviews, recipes and much more.

Can my friends and I set up a wine club?

It is becoming increasingly common for groups of friends or locals with an interest in wine to set up a club. Members usually put money into a kitty, and the funds are used to purchase different wines to taste and try. Meetings are held at pre-arranged intervals, and usually – unless there is a neutral meeting place that is used for every meeting – members take it in turns to host the event.

I enjoy wine but find it hard to digest. Any suggestions?

Some people do find wine hard to digest. Some people are fine with whites, but cannot deal well with reds, and for others it is vice versa. Some people find it difficult to handle either. The best course of action is to opt for lighter wines, which are not too acidic or rich. Also, don’t guzzle the wine, but drink slowly and in moderation.

I enjoy cooking red meat dishes and pasta. What sort of wine is best for these dishes?

Pasta and red meats – as well as mature cheese – goes fabulously with a rich and full-bodied red. Cabernet Sauvignon is a good choice, and this comes blended with either merlot or Shiraz for extra depth and character.

What is the taste difference between German Riesling and Californian Riesling?

A native of Germany, Riesling is usually a bit sweet and a bit acidic in order to give it a balanced finish. However, Californian Riesling does not have that acidity about it and is therefore far sweeter than a German Riesling.

What makes a certain wine cost more than another?

The cost of a wine is determined by the way that the grape is produced, the origin of the grape, and most importantly the demand for the grape/wine, which enables the seller to set the price.

What should I look for when I am tasting wine?

Wine tasting isn’t actually all about taste. You need to look at the colour of the wine, as well as assess the aroma. It is the blend of smell, taste, and appearance than give the overall result.

Is wine bad for you?

Evidence has shown that wine can actually be good for you, providing it is consumed in moderation. This is particularly true of red wine, which is said to reduce the risk of heart disease. Wine is also thought to reduce the risks of strokes and Alzheimer’s.

Is wine fattening?

Wine can be fattening, but it depends on which one – and how much – you have. A typical glass of wine as 110 calories, but sweeter wines are higher in calories. Also, higher alcohol content equates to a higher number of calories.