Wine is all about the sensory experience and is meant to be paired with good food and good conversation. Wine can seem complicated, but at Kitchen & Vine, we think it should be approachable and fun.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind on your wine exploration:

Try it again. Just because you tried a Syrah that you didn’t like, don’t let that deter you from trying it again. Different wineries and regions have different styles. Plus, tastes change. The smoky, black pepper flavor that turned you off so much before, may now be something you’ll crave.

Seek out new pairings. Only drinking white wine with fish is passé. Mix up your standard food and wine pairings and discover that there are exceptions to every rule.

Pay attention. That floral note in your wine, is it honeysuckle? Jasmine? Identifying a wine’s aromas, flavors, mouthfeel, color, etc., enhances the experience and makes you a more discerning taster. It will help you pinpoint the qualities you do and don’t like from each varietal or region.

Share with friends. It’s always tempting to save the good wine for your own enjoyment, but when the opportunity arises to uncork a bottle with a buddy, we say, “go for it.” You’ll never regret the memories made.

Break the rules. Drink what you like, when you like. For example, we <3 Rosé all year round. It pairs with just about anything, and has a beautiful pink hue that looks as good by a pool as it does next to a Thanksgiving turkey.