First off, I would like to say that I do not endorse heavy drinking in any way, but if you are the type that enjoys a good drink every so often than this is the perfect post for you. The thing with wines is that most of the time we think that we will gather the best wisdom from learning which wine to choose from a buying a good book and reading it. Truth is, this isn't quantum mechanics and we will not gather even the slightest idea of a how a certain wine tastes if we read it from a book. We may be pointed in the right direction, but truthfully, we will never know.From my personal experience, the best way to become a wine expert is from trial and error. I can assure you that if, for a year, every time you had decided to get some wine for dinner, you went to your local store and bought a different variety, it is very likely that by now you can tell which wine you absolutely love. You need to be spontaneous, start thinking outside the box, and explore. Most of the time, we tend to be afraid of change, because we might come across something we don't like. Then I would ask you, so what? If that is the price you have to pay, so be it. Now, if what you want is to read reviews from other people, just as you do with movies, then I would suggest Cork'd for its great interface and easy to use dynamics.
When it comes to price you have to be aware that you can get some great wines from under $10. There is no need to go all out and buy the most expensive wine at your local shop. Now of course, buying some wine between $15 and $50 might mean that you are probably getting a high quality grape(taking into consideration where you are shopping). It is said that, given the advances in farming and somewhat the depressed market, a $30 wine today, might have cost $60 to $80 a decade ago. That's just something you can't avoid thinking about. Remember then, you're not buying a car or a particular pair of jeans, you are buying wine. Wine comes from grapes. And good grapes come with good farming. Do not trust a particular brand just because you have liked it all your life. Anyways, I wish you all a happy wine tasting experience.
