Wine Collecting for Beginners: Savouring the Age-Old Art of Wine
Blog by Zandria Nel- Marketing Manager & Wine Club Manager
When it comes to wine, many people appreciate the experience of sipping a well-aged bottle. There’s something enchanting about the way time can transform a simple grape into a complex symphony of flavours. If you’re intrigued by the idea of wine collecting but don’t know where to start, don’t worry! We’re here to demystify the world of wine collecting and introduce you to a couple of captivating vintage options along the way.
Why Collect Wine?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s address the fundamental question: Why collect wine? Wine collecting is not just about accumulating bottles; it’s about building a treasure trove of special experiences and stories. Each bottle has a unique journey, from our vineyard to your collection. It’s part of an investment in your own palate and the joy of sharing exceptional wines with friends and loved ones.
What is a Vinoteque Wine?
You might come across the term “Vinoteque” while exploring wine collecting. A Vinoteque wine refers to a bottle that has been aged in optimal conditions, often at the winery, before being released to the public. These wines are carefully stored to enhance their flavours and aromas, making them a sought-after choice for collectors. When you collect Vinoteque wines, you’re essentially collecting pieces of history, as they showcase the unique character of each vintage.
Getting Started with Wine Collecting
1. Explore Your Preferences
Before you start buying bottles, take some time to understand your own wine preferences. Do you lean towards red or white wines? Are you a fan of bold and spicy flavours or do you prefer something more delicate and floral? Knowing your taste preferences will help you make informed choices.
2. Learn the Basics
Wine has its own language, but you don’t need to be fluent to enjoy it. Learn a few essential terms, like “tannins” (the texture of the wine), “vintage” (the year the grapes were harvested), and “varietal” (the type of grape used). This knowledge will make navigating wine labels much easier.
3. Taste and Discover
One of the most enjoyable ways to discover your wine preferences is by tasting. Attend wine tastings, try different styles, and note what appeals to your palate. Experimentation is key to finding the wines that resonate with you.
4. Wine Can Tell a Story
Each bottle of wine can be a chapter in your own personal narrative. Perhaps you’re drawn to a bottle of wine because its vintage is linked to a special moment in your life, like your birth year or a significant anniversary. For instance, our 30-year-old 1992 Saxenburg Private Collection Shiraz not only represents a remarkable vintage but may also be a delightful addition to your collection if this year holds sentimental value in your life. Its intriguing blend of violet notes and Shiraz spice may be attractive to your palate and evoke memories of your own unique journey.
5. Expand Your Horizons
As you become more confident, don’t hesitate to venture into different wine regions and grape varieties. This diversity will enrich your collection and palate. Our Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 is a well-loved varietal at Saxenburg and is known for its prestigious accolades. With its ruby colour and dark fruit notes mingling with hints of leather, cedar spice, and pencil shavings, it’s a delightful choice. Notably, it earned Platter’s 4 Stars and Gilbert & Gaillard Gold awards, a testament to Saxenburg’s commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality.
You Bought Your First Bottle of Wine, Now What?
So, you’ve purchased your first bottle of wine. Congratulations! Now, what do you do with it? Here are some basic storage tips:
- Temperature Matters: Store your Vinoteque wines at a consistent temperature between 12-15°C. Fluctuations can cause the wine to age prematurely.
- Keep It Humid: Maintain a humidity level of around 70% to prevent corks from drying out and allowing air to seep in.
- Store Horizontally: Lay your bottles on their sides to keep the cork moist, preventing oxidation.
- Avoid Vibration: Keep your wine away from appliances or areas with frequent vibrations, as this can disturb the ageing process.
- Consider a Wine Rack: Wine racks are a stylish and practical way to store your collection. They allow you to see your bottles and access them easily.
- Dark and Still: Store your wine in a dark, quiet place, away from sunlight and any sources of vibration.
“Remember, wine collecting is a journey, not a destination. Savour each bottle you open, and don’t be afraid to share them with friends and fellow wine enthusiasts. Wine is meant to be enjoyed, and your collection is there to enhance life’s special moments! ”