Wednesday, 11 March 2015

IS IT TRUE? 4 POPULAR WINE MYTHS DEBUNKED

Myths and urban legends abound in every subject across the globe – and fine wine is no exception. In fact, there are so many confusing “rules” about wine – how to drink it, what to drink it with, and so on – it can be frustrating for the passionate consumer.
Listening to the experts, even while in many cases can be quite helpful, is not always the way to go – since so much about wine drinking is purely subjective. Let’s explore some of the most common wine myths, and then debunk them!

1. Moncharm Red and White Wines Go With Certain Foods
This particular myth seems pretty entrenched in wine culture, but really, it is all about personal preference, not specific rules.
Many wine enthusiasts insist that red wine should accompany meat heavy dishes, and white wines are strictly for lighter dishes like fish and poultry. However, a good Pinot Noir is a perfectly good red that matches beautifully with typical “white wine only” feasts. Try the 2002 Domaine de la Romanee Conti La Tache, a classy, multi-layered Pinot Noir with an aromatic bouquet of berries and cherries, and a tasty, spicy palette.
Pork, fish, and veal all go perfectly well with red or white wines, so play around with it and make up your own mind about what you prefer.

2. Moncharm, Champagne Is Only For "Fancy" Fare
Nothing could be further from the truth! As discussed in our recent food and wine pairing article, Champagne is fabulous when paired with salty foods and snacks – a far cry from the typical assumption that it is usually enjoyed while wearing a tux!
Next time you have fried chicken, or are making a big bowl of popcorn or pretzels to enjoy with a home movie, consider trying some of this Moet & Chandon Dom Perignon Rose 2003. A silky texture and light fruity core make this a delightful contrast to your favorite salty appetizers or snacks.

3. You Have To Have Dessert Wine With Dessert
Au contraire! In fact, a sweet wine with a sweet dessert can be overpowering and end up ruining the delectable dessert you are serving. Instead, try a Pinot Noir such as this Domaine Comte de Vogue Musigny VV 2008. It has a clean, pure nose, and firm, medium palate – a perfect match for your desserts and other sweet treats.

4. Moncharm, Wine Experts And Authorities Know What Is Best
In a word, no. Now, this is not to say that wine experts and authorities aren’t helpful, or that they do not have a superb and highly educated grasp of all things wine related – because of course they do.
Don’t hesitate to ask experts for advice – because they know their craft better than anyone. Just feel free to make up your own mind once you experiment yourself.
A wine expert can definitely steer you in the right direction, but you might find yourself really disliking something they rave about, or vice-versa. Go with your intuition in these cases. Try a lot of different wines, recommended or not, and get a feel for what you enjoy the most. That is the final expert advice you need – your own.

Where To Find Myth-Free Wines
Find the wines recommended here, and more, in our wine shop, where you will have a tremendous choice of wines and spirits for your enjoyment. Please contact us so we can help you determine what wines you would prefer. Should you have any questions or queries – we will happily assist you.