CAMERON DOUGLAS

Educating yourself online about wine can be confusing, but made easier with the right approach.

The recent lockdown made it more apparent than ever that learning a new skill, or honing an existing one, is but a mouse click away.

Exploring the world of wine online opens an encyclopedia of information so wide and deep it can be as confusing as it is exciting. Confusing because there are as many instant experts to wade past as there are professionals who genuinely know what they are talking about.

Online information about wine dates quickly, so be sure you’re not looking too far into the past. One site that remains up-to-date and offers serious wine learners the right package of information is guildsomm.com. Although it’s a site designed for sommeliers, it offers a platform for learning that brings together video, podcasts and reading material at all skill levels.

If you are drawn to the internet, then a good approach is to pick one or two people with the kind of knowledge, experience and skills you require, and a couple of sites you trust, to ease you into developing your own vocabulary for wine. Or just join a discussion over what best pairs with your freshly baked sourdough bread.

Recently, I have been enjoying doing live webcasts for readers, as well as joining friends for online tastings. I have also had the pleasure of being on virtual panels around the world for a glass or five of wine and a robust discussion.

Overall, I would say, have fun with it – and if you are wanting more serious avenues, drop me a line.