2024 has been a year of unearthing the nuances of wine and diving into its multifaceted world, thanks to insights from 041WINE columnist Lelethu Zondani. Whether you’re a casual sipper, health enthusiast, or budding collector, here are the key lessons we’ve gathered this year:
1. Sipping to Better Health
Moderation is the golden rule when it comes to enjoying wine’s health benefits. Studies highlight how a glass a day (one for women, two for men) can:
- Lower risks of heart disease and stroke.
- Manage blood sugar and reduce diabetes risk.
- Support brain health and reduce cognitive decline.
The secret? Antioxidants and resveratrol, are compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, rich in tannins, deliver the most health perks.
2. Building a Wine Collection: The Do’s and Don’ts
Starting a wine collection doesn’t require a fortune or a cellar. Lelethu’s practical tips this year include:
- Buy in threes: Enjoy young, mature, and gift-worthy bottles.
- Focus on tannins: High-tannin wines age gracefully, saving you money in the long run.
- Stay true to your taste: Avoid trends and invest in wines that you genuinely enjoy.
- Proper storage: Cool, dark spaces and horizontal placement keep your wine pristine.
3. Why Does Wine Taste Like… That?
Wine’s flavours are a product of nature and craft—no additives involved! The grapes (cultivar), climate (terroir), and winemaking process all contribute. A glass can surprise you with:
- Fruity notes like berries, citrus, or tropical fruits.
- Floral hints of jasmine, lavender, or rose petals.
- Herbal or earthy undertones like thyme, eucalyptus, or mushrooms.
- Oak-aged subtleties such as vanilla, caramel, or smoky bacon.
Next time you sip, try identifying these layers—it’s part of the magic!
4. Expanding Your Wine Knowledge
Wine education is ongoing, whether it’s through tastings, asking questions, or even making mistakes (hello, overpriced bottles!). Lelethu reminds us to keep learning and experimenting, whether we’re pairing wine with meals, exploring new cultivars, or adding to our collection.
As we raise our glasses to 2024, one thing’s clear: wine isn’t just a drink—it’s a journey. Here’s to savouring every sip, responsibly and adventurously.
Cheers to another year of wine discoveries!
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