10 Questions: How to Get Started, Part 1

For our first episode, we are kicking off a series called “10 Questions” - and this time we are talking about how to get started. Part 1 is about how to learn about wine and where are some good places to buy wine. We talk about the points system, why local shops are such a great resource, and some of our favorite books and reading materials.

Notes:

Authentique, the small wine bar mentioned in London https://authentique-epicerie.com/

67 Pall Mall, the wine club in London that is still doing virtual tastings https://www.67pallmall.com/

The Oxford Companion to Wine, an essential reference book by Jancis Robinson

Wine critics mentioned: Jasper Morris, Antonio Galloni, Jancis Robinson

Phoebe’s friend that we mentioned called Vanessa also just published a great book called Big Macs & Burgundy with a fresh take on pairings (highly recommended by both of us!!)

Le Vieux Comptoir, a favorite neighborhood wine shop and bistro in London http://www.levieuxcomptoir.co.uk/

Sommpicks, the newsletter (and online wine shop!) https://www.sommpicks.com/

Enomatic machines are basically mechanical dispensers that control oxidization so you can serve wines by the glass while keeping the bottle "fresh" over days and even weeks. There's some debate about the mechanics and quality, but overall it's a great way to sample lots of things and learn. Here's an example of an enomatic machine at a favorite shop in London: https://hedonism.co.uk/tastings