How to start a wine collection (for any budget)?

 

Here are tips and strategies for all types of aspiring collectors and connoisseurs, arranged by budget.

 

Know what you like. It's that simple. Everyone should learn what they like and start collecting accordingly. You can only learn that by tasting, lots of tasting. Start in the neighborhood so you support local businesses. Participate in (virtual) wine tastings, so you also learn the story behind the wine.

 

Expensive wine cabinets are not always necessary right away, especially for novice collectors. But do make sure your wines are kept lying down and dark at a temperature between 10 and 14° C.

 

Collectors in the €10,000 budget often look for expensive bottles that appreciate in value. Those in the €200 budget are looking for something different: sentimentality. For example, consider a vintage related to a particular event, say year of birth.

 

Buy wine accessories such as a wine cooler, decanter and good glasses. The right drinking temperature and good glasses contribute to the right experience. A young wine often benefits greatly from proper aeration.

 

Sure, anyone can buy an expensive bottle of Barolo, but Gattinara may be just as good and cost less. If you love Burgundy but can't afford Burgundy prices, check out nearby regions: Savigny-lès-Beaune, Fixin or Cru Beaujolais.

 

Treat your collection like an investment. Just as investors follow the stock market, wine collectors follow their wine investments. Now the trick is to buy resounding names, with a good reputation. Usually, these wines need to be imposed for several years to reach maturity. If you buy a wine for €90 now, it could be worth around €175 after three years, if stored properly of course!

 

Every wine has a story. Each element creates a unique taste experience. So enjoy.

 

While doing so, make sure your wines are stored properly. If a wine is stored in a EuroCave, it will increase value. Check out our site to see which storage solution is best for you.