Do you find visiting a wine shop intimidating? Are you new to the wine world or feel like you lack expertise? Well, fear not! We have some expert advice to help you navigate your way through a wine shop with confidence.

We spoke to Andrea Card, a Senior Winemaker at Francis Ford Coppola Winery, who is passionate about wine pairings. In fact, their dedication to wine pairings is so strong that they recently opened a pizza and wine hotline to help you find the perfect combination.

According to Card, the key to a successful wine shop visit is to make use of the wine experts in the store. Don’t be afraid to communicate clearly and openly with them, as they are there to help you make the best decision. If you’re looking for a wine to pair with food, it’s important to come prepared. Card advises, “You should always know what cuisine you’re preparing or having and what the primary flavor profiles of the dish are.” Having a price point in mind will also help narrow down your options.

But what if you’re new to wine and don’t know much about it? Don’t worry, you probably have a general idea of what you like. Do you prefer sweet or dry? White or red? Let the wine pros know your preferences, as this information will come in handy. Card explains, “They’ll want to steer you in the direction of a bottle you’ll probably enjoy once they have a better idea of your personal tastes.” And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to ask them for unexpected recommendations. Card assures us that they will be happy to suggest something new and exciting.

So, next time you visit a wine shop, remember to approach it with confidence. Seek out the expertise of the wine experts, communicate your preferences, and be open to trying something different. The world of wine is vast and exciting, and with a little guidance, you’ll be able to find the perfect bottle for any occasion.

To read the original article by Tasting Table, click here: [link to original article]