There are a few (ok… many) wines described in the various books and study materials quickly finding their way to the top of my “must try” list. I blame it, among other things, on the alluring descriptions of “Wines to Know” in The Wine Bible by Karen MacNeil. Her words spark a curiosity quenched only by experiencing the wine(s) for yourself. So, we did. After reading her brilliant insight on Chile, we thought the entire experience would be better if we could review the materials while drinking the ‘Wines to Know’–all for the sake of learning.

Corkscrew-worthy whites from Chile:

Lapostolle Cuvee Alexandre – Chardonnay (Casablanca Valley, Chile)

Cousino-Macul Isidora – Sauvignon Gris (Maipo Valley, Chile)

Karen MacNeil’s insightful book has really helped make sense of lesser-known wine regions, while adding context and detail to the mainstream regions (i.e. France, Italy, Spain, etc.). The other learning materials were no less responsible for inspiring late-night wine purchases. The Introductory Course & Exam Workbook, for example, provides the just enough of a description to peak one’s curiosity. While it’s always fun… err… educational to compare varietals from different regions, the styles and indigenous grape varieties were the ones to try—for the sake of learning 😉

Corkscrew-worthy reds from Italy:

Tormaresca Bocca di Lupo – Aglianico (Puglia, Italy)

Santadi Terre Brune Carignano del Sulcis Superiore – Carignan (Sardinia, Italy)

Somehow, consuming wine while studying for a wine exam just feels right. Moreover, drinking a Chilean white while being introduced to Chilean culture through the words of Karen MacNeil seems perfect. Kevin Zraly ends each section of his book, Windows of the World – Complete Wine Course, with wine tasting recommendations to compliment (and add context) to the corresponding chapter. So whether you choose to have the real-time experience of the sip-while-studying method or the reward-yourself-at-the-end-of-each-section approach, don’t think twice. It is after all… for the sake of learning.

Back to the books!

Next article in the series: Enthusiast to Sommelier: Take a Pass

First article in this series: Enthusiast to Sommelier: Getting Started