4 white wine rules worth following

Some of the fussier wine rules have given wine etiquette, in general, a bad name. The thing is, there are a good few guidelines that are popular simply because they really do add extra enjoyment to your wine-drinking experience. If you follow just four rules for drinking white, let these be them.

  • Just add ice

    Some might say that adding ice dilutes the wine and reduces its flavours – but sometimes it’s just too darned hot. If adding an ice cube or two keeps you cool, go for it and ignore the purists clicking their tongues. However, if you want to cool off without watering down your drink, follow the example of wine guru Maryna Strachan – put marbles in the freezer and use those instead. They look really eye-catching in the glass, too.

  • Know when to switch glasses

    Different glassware has a variety of effects on wine and, as a result, wine experts have deduced the perfect glass for each kind. Wider-bottomed glasses are more suited to full-bodied reds, while longer stemmed, thinner glasses are ideal for whites, rosés, and even bubbly.

    If you’re fan of bubbly, it might be time to put down the flute. People are tired of getting their noses stuck in narrow glasses and they’re also missing out on the lovely yeasty aromas of top fizzes. Next time, try serving bubbles in a tulip-shaped glass instead, or even the on-trend stemless options.

  • Varietals are the spice of life

    Chenin Blanc is a fabulous grape for summer – refreshing and mildly acidic – and you can often find a bottle at a better value than other varietals. Widely planted in South Africa, there’s plenty to choose from the unwooded, wooded, bubbly, off-dry, and even dessert wines, on offer. No matter your tastes, there’s a Chenin for you.

    Sauvignon Blanc is also an all-round favourite – and look out for Sauvignon Blanc/Chenin Blanc blends, which usually feature rich, refreshing tropical fruit notes.

    While you’re feeling exploratory, head further off the beaten track and taste wines such as light and fruity Pinot Grigio, Riesling, which is often a good match for summery chicken and salad recipes, and even the unique Cederberg Bukettraube, which has delicate floral flavours.

  • Waste not, want not

    If you’re hosting a party or just happen to have half of a bottle left, use wine to make cocktails. Try out recipes such as the Stargazer, made using Chardonnay, dark rum, and pineapple juice, or the Just Keep Swimming with Sauvignon Blanc, vodka and watermelon juice.

    Making a cooler can also help keep you chilled without overindulging. Tonic, lemonade and soda all make great additions to wine and cut down the alcohol content. Garnish with mint, cherries, strawberry halves or frosted grapes for a pool-party punch.