Wine 101 for wine non-connoisseurs with Pumpjack & Piddlewick

Wine 101 – Wine Help

As a wine maker hanger on, I’ve learned more than I could ever want to know about wine. Honestly, I would rather just drink the delicious stuff. (Truly basic wine 101!)

However, when I think about it, some of the knowledge I have gained has helped me in buying better wine (not necessarily more expensive). Also, I do get asked lots of questions, from my non-connoisseur acquaintances. So, I decided, I would write some helpful hints that might actually be worth knowing by us laymen (and women), especially if it helps with buying wines.

So here’s my take on Wine 101… lessons for wine non-connoisseurs.

What is a Tastevinage and how will it save you money on good Burgundy wines? We delve into here at PumpjackPiddlewick

What is a Tastevinage? Unique Wines of Burgundy

The Tastevinage is one of Burgundy’s most fascinating traditions, blending history, quality and regional pride into something that is almost entirely unique in the world of wine. Better still, it isn’t just a fascinating piece of Burgundian history. If you’re hoping to discover exceptional Burgundy without emptying your bank account,Continue Reading

Do wine glass shapes matter, and if so why? Yes, they do affect the taste of the wine. We delve into the why here at PumpjackPiddlewick

Do Wine Glass Shapes Matter? (Wine 103)

I am going to tell you a story about wine glass shapes. It’s a true story. In fact, it’s a personal experience story. The day, well, actually night, that I experienced an epiphany moment. Okay, maybe slight exaggeration, but my eyes were opened to why wine glass shapes matter. WineContinue Reading

Anyone can afford good wine, especially if they create a wine cellar. But what exactly is a wine cellar and why does it make a difference we ask and answer at PumpjackPiddlewick

Want to be able to afford good wine? Start a Wine Cellar (Wine 102)

How can one afford, let alone drink good wine year-round unless you are rich? That’s easy, start a wine cellar. Anyone can do it. And it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. In fact, in the long run, it will save you money. If you like toContinue Reading

What is terroir? And why is it the most important thing to know about wine? We delve into this fascinating topic at PumpjackPiddlewick

What is ‘Terroir’? (Wine 101)

I had a guest say to me yesterday I like Chablis, but I don’t like Chardonnay. It got me to thinking how this French wine is called ‘Chablis’ and not ‘Chardonnay’. You see, all the grapes growing around Chablis are Chardonnay. So technically, a Chablis is a Chardonnay. In mostContinue Reading

Vouvray wines are special. Partly due to the terroir, the land, but maybe more importantly due to the grape variety. Certainly a combination of the two makes for a very unique, and possibly my favourite, wine here at PumpjackPiddlewick

In love with Vouvray Wines

As a wine guide I get asked a lot if I have a favourite wine. This changes with my mood, but consistently I come back to Vouvray. In particular Vouvray sparkling wines are my go to wine of choice. Who doesn’t love a little bubbles in their glass? But VouvrayContinue Reading