Why Red Wine Lovers Should Buy White Wine
By Martha McBride
I’m one of those people: I love red wine so much that I never drink white. No matter the weather, the meal, or the occasion, if I’m drinking wine it’s either sparkling – which I also adore– or it’s red. There aren’t any exceptions.
Of course, this is atypical. Most normal people enjoy a whole spectrum of wines, selecting the varietal based on cuisine, temperature, season, and the like. However, it is not unusual to have strong preferences and that’s where this wine-buying strategy comes in.
When stocking your cellar or wine rack, it’s helpful to select wines that you don’t necessarily love. For me, that would mean any manner of delectable white wines that I would never personally consume. For you, it could mean acquiring some sweeter wines, dry wines, sparkling wine, or even wines with specific characteristics you don’t care for like a buttery finish, oakiness, or high tannins.
A well-rounded supply of wine is smart, because, ultimately, when you have great giveaway wine, you don’t have to repeatedly face the selfish aspects of your personality. I personally love Cabernet. Giving away a bold and delicious bottle of Cab, or serving it to someone I don’t see as a totally Cab-worthy acquaintance, forces me to face this ugly side. (I’m not proud of it, but it’s the truth!)
With other tasty options (perhaps a Syrah, Pinot Noir, or a beautiful Chardonnay) I can give from my stash freely without even a twinge of reservation. Adding these other wines also rounds out my collection so that I can respond appropriately to guest requests and don’t end up merely serving wines that please my palate over and over again.
When building a case to purchase, consider adding at least three bottles from a category you wouldn’t drink yourself. These wines represent perfect on-hand gifts, great wine to serve to unexpected guests, and ideal bottles to take to a party. I’m not suggesting passing off “bad” wine. You want your giveaway bottles to be good wines of which you can be proud. They just don’t need to be wines it pains you to share, serve, or give away. Why not stock the cabinet so you can feel good about sharing your wine?