Step 1:
Why learn about wine?

Step 2:
How to enjoy wine

Step 3:
What to taste first

White Wines
Beringer Vineyards, Gewürztraminer 2000, California ($7)
A dense, lush white with the sweet, aromatic flavors characteristic of this varietal.

Dry Creek Vineyard, Dry Chenin Blanc 2000, Clarksburg ($7.50)
A smooth and balanced California Chenin Blanc with floral notes and attractive fruit.

Calina, Reserve Chardonnay 2000, Casablanca Valley, Chile ($8)
A fresh, tangy Chard with bright structure, butterscotch flavors, and a smooth finish.

Rancho Zabaco, Sauvignon Blanc 2000, Russian River Valley, California ($16)
Try this snappy, bright white with shellfish; it has lively acidity and tangy citrus fruit.

Red Wines
Bogle, Merlot 2000, California ($9)
This easy-to-like Merlot is rich and deep, with dense plum fruit and complex, fleshy flavors.

Black Opal, Shiraz 1999, South Eastern Australia ($11)
An explosive Aussie Shiraz, with juicy cherry fruit and notes of oak and cinnamon. (Down Under, the varietal known elsewhere as Syrah is called Shiraz.)

Perrin, Côtes du Rhône Reserve 1999, France ($11)
A blend of luscious Grenache, Syrah, and two other red Rhône varietals; dark and spicy, with lively blackberry fruit.

Chateau Ste. Michelle, Cabernet Sauvignon 1998, Columbia Valley, Washington ($15)
Another great Washington State red with supple, fresh, and balanced flavors and notes of plum.

Sparkling and Dessert Wines
Robert Pecota, "Moscato d'Andrea" Muscat Canelli 2000, Napa Valley, California (half bottle, $12)
A spicy, tangy dessert wine with a long, rich finish.

Domaine Chandon, Brut Classique, California ($15)
A classic, crisp dry sparkling wine.

Text from www.epicurious.com.