Choosing Wine for Beginners: Simple Tips from Lakeland’s Wine Experts

If you’re new to wine, walking into a wine aisle or a liquor store in Lakeland can feel overwhelming. Rows of bottles with unfamiliar labels, foreign terms, and a wide price range make it hard to know where to start. But don’t worry—choosing wine isn’t a science; it’s a journey of taste and discovery. At My Town Liquor, we’re here to help Lakeland residents navigate the world of wine with ease.

1. Start with What You Like to Eat

Your favorite foods can help guide your wine choices. Love spicy dishes? Try a slightly sweet white wine like a Riesling. Enjoy grilled meats or burgers? A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec might be perfect. The rule of thumb is: if you like what’s on your plate, find a wine that complements it.

2. Understand the Basics: Red vs. White

Here’s a quick breakdown:Red wine is usually richer and pairs well with hearty dishes like red meats and pastas.

White wine is typically lighter and pairs beautifully with seafood, chicken, and salads.

Rosé is a great middle ground and is very refreshing in Florida’s warm weather.

If you’re just starting out, lighter wines like Pinot Grigio, Moscato, or Pinot Noir are excellent beginner-friendly options.

3. Don’t Be Afraid of the Screw Cap

A common beginner mistake is thinking that a wine with a cork is automatically better. Not true! Many excellent wines now come with screw caps to preserve freshness. Trust your taste, not the packaging.

4. Ask for Recommendations

Our team at My Town Liquor, Lakeland’s Premier Destination for Curated Spirits, is always happy to help. Whether you’re shopping for wine, looking to Buy Gin in Lakeland, or browsing our shelves for something new, our staff can guide you to wines that match your taste preferences and budget.

5. Serve Wine at the Right Temperature

This simple tip can make any wine taste better:

Chill whites and rosés to about 45–55°F.

Serve reds slightly below room temperature, around 60–65°F.

Letting a bottle of red wine breathe for 15–20 minutes before drinking can also enhance its flavor.

6. Explore Wine Tastings

Lakeland has a growing wine scene, and local events or tastings are a great way to sample different varietals without committing to a full bottle. We often feature tastings at My Town Liquor—keep an eye out!

7. Don’t Ignore Other Spirits

While wine is wonderful, many beginners also enjoy branching out. If you’re curious to Buy Gin in Lakeland FL, browse our carefully selected collection. Or if you’re more into aged spirits, check out our Brandy Store in Lakeland FL, where quality meets tradition. And for those seeking something bold, we’re known as the best tequila store in Lakeland for a reason.

8. Try and Take Notes

Wine is personal. Keep a small wine journal or use an app to remember what you’ve tried and liked. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Choosing wine doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to start simple, trust your taste buds, and enjoy the experience. At My Town Liquor, we’re more than just a liquor store in Lakeland—we’re a community of enthusiasts ready to help you explore everything from wines to gins, tequilas, and brandies.

So whether you’re planning your first dinner party, gifting a bottle to a friend, or just treating yourself after a long week, visit us at 2332 Griffin Road in Lakeland, FL. We’re proud to continue serving the Lakeland community with a selection curated for quality, taste, and distinction.