How to drink and appreciate wine like a connoisseur
Wine Lust is a month-long of workshops, tastings and masterclasses for those beginning to know wines and oenophiles. Hear what wine insider Christopher Netto says.
What does it take to be a wine connoisseur? Yahoo Life Singapore asks Christopher Netto, Associate Director of Group Wines at 1-Group, to share more about things we wish to know about wines, if there are any hard and fast rules about pairing white meats with white wines, why sommeliers ‘gargle’ with wines and how we can learn more about wine. At the same time, Yahoo Life Singapore also sourced some wines and tools that may help elevate your wine-drinking experience.
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Yahoo Life Singapore: Are there any guidelines to follow when drinking and pairing wine?
Christopher Netto: In today's context, while guidelines can help make choices, personal preferences hold equal importance when selecting the perfect wine for an occasion. That being said, there is a general understanding that sparkling wines are often reserved for celebratory events.
For those new to the world of wines, I highly recommend joining us for the Wine Lust Festival's wine pairing dinner session. Whether it is the OUMI Sake & Wine Pairing Dinner or the Au-Balcon 4-Course Wine Pairing Dinner, these events will provide a comprehensive experience of how wines can beautifully complement flavours and enhance your dining experience.
What are the unique characteristics of wines from different regions?
The characteristics of wines primarily stem from their terroir, which encompasses factors such as soil minerality, water source, altitude, and more. These elements collectively define the intricate tastes and aromas that wines offer.
When picking wines, what do we look out for?
I consider the region a grape variety that aligns with my preferences and a price point that feels reasonable to me when selecting wines.
If you want to gain more confidence in picking your next bottle, please join us for a Wine Master Class by Crystal Wines on 2 September 2023 at the charming Au Balcon, The Summerhouse. Attendees will be able to develop a deeper understanding of various grape varietals, nurture their passion for wines, and gain insider tips on picking the next bottle.
Are there any hard and fast rules when it comes to food pairing?
Traditionally, a common rule of thumb suggests pairing white wines with white meats and red wines with red meats. However, in today’s context, many individuals are enthusiastic about exploring the exciting versatility of mixing and matching different combinations.
For a first-hand experience of the wonders of pairing, we invite you to join us for the 5-course Wine Pairing Dinner at FIRE. This unique event presents dishes that pay homage to Argentina's rich culinary heritage, featuring impeccably grilled red and white meats. These dishes have been thoughtfully matched with elegantly curated wine pairings by our Head Sommelier.
Do the types of glasses matter when drinking different types of wines?
I believe that the types of glasses play a role when drinking wine, and I lean towards larger glass formats – as they tend to enhance the appreciation of the aromas in wine.
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How does chilling the wine glasses help?
Particularly in a hot country like Singapore, it is advantageous for maintaining optimal chill for champagnes, sparkling wines, and white wines, especially in outdoor seating spaces.
Is it better to consume reds at room temperature or chilled? Why do reds need to be aerated?
Considering the context of Singapore's slightly higher atmospheric temperature, I suggest a slight chilling for red wines. Specific reds, influenced by factors such as their origin and age, might benefit from aeration. This process aims to unlock the wine's fullest potential by revealing various aromas and characteristics that might remain concealed.
Cuisinart CWC-800CEN 8-Bottle Private Reserve Wine Cellar, Black
Hand Blown Lead-free Crystal Glass Wine Decanter and Carafe, 750ml
Is it necessary to 'gargle' wine in the mouth and then swallow it, as demonstrated by sommeliers? How does this allow one to enjoy its taste fully?
The act of "gargling" is primarily a matter of personal preference, commonly employed by sommeliers to introduce more air to the wine while tasting. This technique allows them to discern a broader range of wine characteristics and detect any potential flaws it might possess.
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Wine Aerator Electric Wine Decanter, One Touch
Is there a step-by-step guide to fully enjoy the wine-drinking process?
There isn't a strict formula for savouring wine. It can be as straightforward as pouring, smelling, and tasting. The key lies in appreciating the wine while connecting it to its region, terroir, and unique characteristics.
Please visit us at Au Balcon, The Summerhouse, and immerse yourself in a journey to summer in France. Indulge in French wines and transport yourself to warm, enchanting summer evenings in the countryside. Au Balcon at The Summerhouse is designed as an idyllic summer getaway, showcasing the French farm-to-table concept.
How are our tastebuds affected if we were to drink whites after reds? Is there a guideline to fully enjoy the wine-drinking experience?
This consideration, once again, ties back to individual preferences. Often, we transition from lighter wines to heavier or more full-bodied ones. This sequencing aids in discerning distinct notes, whether in terms of taste or aromas, ensuring a more comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of the wine's nuances.
Is there an expiry date for wines?
The longevity of wine largely depends on the storage conditions it's exposed to, as both sunlight and temperature can significantly impact the wine's overall condition.
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What else can Yahoo readers do to elevate our appreciation of wine?
Take the time to venture into diverse wine regions and styles. Experiment with a wide range of grape varietals, appreciating the process. Over time, you might notice a shift in your taste preferences.
Whenever the opportunity arises to travel, include visits to vineyards or wineries. These visits help you establish a connection with the wines you encounter. Ultimately, there’s no better way to explore the world than through a wine glass that tells captivating stories.
For those in Singapore, I invite you to be part of the Wine Lust festival from 15 August to 10 September 2023. This month-long celebration offers a captivating experience for wine and food enthusiasts, featuring various exciting activities. Notably, this year's festival introduces the inaugural wine bus tour experience, "The Grape Escape," designed to transport you across multiple parts of the world through the delightful combination of cuisine and wine.
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About Christopher Netto
As the Associate Director of Group Wines at 1-Group, Christopher Netto oversees drinks offerings and programming across 1-Group's leading portfolio of iconic restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs created with heart, purpose, and a vision for providing exceptional experiences. Christopher Netto oversees drinks offerings and programming across 1-Group's leading portfolio of iconic restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs created with heart, purpose, and a vision for providing exceptional experiences. This year, the Wine Lust team launches The Grape Escape, a curated wine bus tour to see guests experience multiple 1-Group wine-centred activities in one day. In addition, Christoper is also the Operations Manager for 1-Arden, comprising Kaarla, Oumi, Sol & Luna and Bee's Knees Urban. Before joining 1-Group, the hospitality veteran held positions at The Sampan Asian Kitchen & Bar, Les Amis Group and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts.
About Wine Lust
One of Christopher's main focus areas is Wine Lust, 1-Group's annual grape-infused festival, designed to educate, excite and encourage budding and seasoned oenophiles. The 7th edition will take place from 15 August 2023 to 10 September 2023; spearheaded by Christopher, the celebration will feature many wine-tasting events, masterclasses, exceptional wine and corkage privileges, and ticketed events to wine and food pairings. Get your tickets today.
*Drink responsibly.
