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Be Cool
Written By: Curt Christiansen | Issue: 2016/07 - July
I drink nearly as much white wine as red.
When I order a white wine I am almost disappointed, as the wine is delivered at a temperature just above freezing. At this temperature I can hardly evaluate the wine as there are no aromatics and the flavor is muted at best.
I understand why this happens. More often than not people expect their white wine ice cold. For years, this notion that white wine should be served at 42 degrees was commonly taught at tastings and even classes. This is going to be a tough habit to break, as many people expect their hand to ache when they hold the bottle. From the service side, it is much faster to warm a wine than to further chill it.
I’m not saying that anyone is drinking their glass incorrectly. If you like your wine ice cold, that’s how it should be served.
Let me just give a suggestion that may enhance your next wine experience. Start with the temperature you are comfortable with and leave the bottle on the table. As the wine goes from cold to cool it will slowly reveal more aroma and flavor. When it reaches a temperature you are comfortable with, put it on ice. You may like your wine the way you always have or you may find a new level of enjoyment.
