Have you ever felt overwhelmed by wine knowledge? Maybe you’ve binge-watched shows like Somm or Drops of God or picked up Jancis Robinson’s World Atlas of Wine, only to feel like you’ll never understand it all. You’re not alone! As wine enthusiasts, we often put immense pressure on ourselves to know everything, but here’s the truth: you don’t have to.
Wine isn’t about mastering a massive encyclopedia of facts—it’s about enjoyment, curiosity, and a lifelong journey of discovery. Let’s break down why even the world’s top wine experts don’t know it all and how you can embrace a more liberating approach to wine appreciation.
Why It’s Impossible to Know Everything About Wine
The world of wine is vast, dynamic, and constantly changing. Here are four key reasons why learning about wine is a never-ending journey:
1. Mother Nature’s Role in Every Bottle
No two vintages of wine are ever the same. Why? Climate plays a huge role in grape growth. Sunshine, rain, heat, and cold all impact the flavor of the grapes. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in warm weather, but if a season is too cool, the wine might taste green and herbal, like bell peppers. On the flip side, too much heat can result in overripe fruit flavors and high alcohol levels.
Add to that the unpredictability of climate change, and winemakers around the globe are constantly adapting. Some are even switching grape varieties or adjusting techniques to deal with shifting weather patterns.
2. Thousands of Grape Varieties to Explore
Did you know there are over 10,000 grape varieties in the world? While only about 1,000 are used for winemaking, that’s still a huge number. Beyond well-known grapes like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or Merlot, there are obscure red wine varieties like Rkatsiteli from Georgia or Rotgipfler from Austria. Some of these wines are so rare, you may never find them outside their home country.
Every year, new hybrids and clones are developed to resist diseases, survive extreme climates, or meet changing consumer tastes.
There’s always something new to discover!
3. Wine Regions Across the Globe
Wine is produced in over 70 countries, each with unique climates, traditions, and regulations. A Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre, France, will taste entirely different from one grown in New Zealand or California.
Some wines can only be tasted at the winery itself, while others, like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, are so exclusive they’re nearly impossible to find or afford.
4. Innovation in Winemaking
From 3D grape sorting technology to computer-guided fermentation processes, winemaking is evolving rapidly. Sustainability movements like biodynamics and regenerative farming are changing vineyard practices, leading to healthier grapes and more eco-friendly wines.
These constant innovations mean the wine world is always in flux, making it impossible to keep up with every new development.
Shifting Your Perspective on Wine Education
When I first started learning about wine, I thought I had to know it all to “belong.” But over time, I realized something liberating: even the most accomplished sommeliers and Masters of Wine are lifelong learners.
Wine isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about embracing curiosity and having fun. Here’s how you can shift your approach:
- Try something new. Pick a wine you’ve never heard of next time you’re at a wine shop or restaurant.
- Visit wineries during your travels. Many small producers offer unique experiences and wines you can’t find elsewhere.
- Build a wine-loving community. Share your discoveries with friends and learn from each other.
Most importantly, remember: education is a journey, not a destination.
Your Go-To Resource for Wine Knowledge
At Everyday Sommelier, our goal is to help you build confidence in your wine knowledge—on your own terms. Forget the pressure to memorize facts or sound like an expert. Instead, focus on enjoying the journey, one sip at a time.
So, grab a wine glass of something new, and join us in exploring the vast, exciting, and ever-changing world of wine.
Let’s toast to curiosity, adventure, and the joy of learning!
Want to know more about WINE WIZE classes and events, click here!
