Wine for Beginners: What to Try First

Walking into a wine store for the first time can feel kind of like stepping into a foreign country. Labels everywhere, words you’ve never heard, prices all over the place—it’s a lot. But here’s the thing: getting into wine doesn’t need to be intimidating. It’s not about knowing all the terms or swirling your glass just right. It’s about finding something you like and enjoying the ride.

If you’re just getting started, keep it simple. There’s no need to overthink it. Start by figuring out what kind of wine you might like—white, red, or rosé. Each one has its own vibe, and there’s no “right” place to begin. A lot of first-timers start with white because it’s usually light, crisp, and a little more familiar. Something like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is a solid intro. They’re refreshing, not too sweet, and not too dry. Basically, they’re crowd-pleasers that go with a wide range of foods (or no food at all).

If white wine sounds a little boring to you, try a rosé. Rosé is like the best of both worlds—it’s made from red grapes but doesn’t have that heavy, dry taste red wine sometimes brings. It’s light, super drinkable, and perfect for sipping in the sun or bringing to a dinner with friends. Some are more crisp and dry, others lean fruity and slightly sweet. Either way, rosé is a total win for beginners.

Now, if you’re thinking you want to dive right into reds, go for it—but start light. Pinot Noir is the perfect red to ease into. It’s smooth, not too bold, and tends to be super food-friendly. You won’t get that super dry feeling in your mouth, and the flavors are usually soft—think cherry, berry, and a little earthy. Another fun red to try is a chilled Lambrusco. It’s slightly fizzy, a little sweet, and honestly just kind of a good time.

For people who like sweeter drinks—like fruity cocktails or hard ciders—there are a couple of wines that’ll probably hit the spot. Moscato is a go-to for a reason: it’s sweet, bubbly, and super easy to drink. Riesling is another option. Some are sweet, some are more dry, but they’re all usually bright and zippy. These are great “gateway” wines and pair surprisingly well with spicy food.

And hey, if you’re shopping at Boone’s, don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. Seriously. We love helping people find their new favorite bottle. Whether you’re looking for something for date night, a girls’ night, or just something to sip while you fold laundry—there’s a bottle here for that. You don’t need to spend a ton either. Some of the best beginner wines at Boone’s are under $15.

Your taste in wine will probably change the more you try. What you love now might not be what you love in six months. That’s the best part—wine is about exploring, testing, sipping, and sometimes being surprised by what you like. Don’t stress about what’s “good” or “fancy.” If you enjoy it, that’s what matters.

Next time you swing by Boone’s, just tell us what kinds of drinks you normally like—sweet, sour, light, bold—and we’ll help match you to a wine that fits your style. We’ll never judge. We’re just here to help you find something you’re excited to pop open.

So go ahead—grab a bottle, pour a glass, and toast to trying something new. We’ll see you soon at Boone’s.