Winesnob or Winespert?

There is a drunken notion that one must be skilled in the art of wine tasting. There is also the premise that a person who has a fancy for wine is known as a wine snob. I am here to give you the skinny on the grape guzzlers! Face it, taste buds are taste buds and our mouths don’t know whether the grape is a $40 bottle from Champagne, France or a $7.97 bottle from aisle no. 15 at Wal mart- if it’s pleasing, then that’s all that matters as we imbibe. It’s really all about what is palatable to the swizzling, swallowing slurper!

I never considered myself a winesnob, perhaps a wino, but never a snob of sorts. If you’re like me, an everyday wannabe wine aficionado, then just the idea of tasting a new grape gets my mouth watering. There’s no pretending I’m some gifted grape dipsomaniac or even a skilled sommelier, no, just a chick who digs a fermented grape! What’s the reward for claiming I’m an expert anyway? More drunken evenings, wine stained choppers, or worst, being labeled as a wine snob? Eeks! I like to think I’m more about enjoying the moment when that first sip reaches my lips.

I coined the term “winespert” for winos like myself who simply enjoy the experiences of wine and all it has to offer. It’s about sharing “grape advice” as I like to say. There are plenty of ways to become a winespert, certainly a lifelong aspiration, I’m sure! For instance, you can join a wine club on the internet which gives you an opportunity to sample 1-6 bottles or even a case if it’s in your buzz budget, without going broke. In addition, the wine clubs give you suggestions, specials and even offer coupons for their selections. Another way to become a winespert is to scout out local wine tastings in your area. They are usually offered at wine stores, bars, and sometimes fundraising events. Look online or check this site for upcoming or seasonal grape tastings. One of my favorite ideas is to have or get invited to wine tasting home parties. Wine tasting parties are the new craze and they’re being uncorked all over the country. Whatever works for your savvy wine whim, just go for it and enjoy the experience.