Navigating the wine aisle can be pretty overwhelming with all the different labels and terms. It’s like stepping into a maze with rows of bottles that all seem to blur together. That is why we are here to help. Let’s break down a wine label in 6 easy steps! 

1. Producer – 
   1. The winery name is often prominent and easy to find, but sometimes you have to look for small text at the top or bottom of the label.  
2. Vintage – 
   1. The vintage indicated the year the grapes were harvested. If no vintage is listed, the wine is most likely a multi-vintage or non-vintage. 
3. Region – 
   1. The region can be as general as Missouri or American, or there may be a specific appellation listed. An appellation listed. An appellation is a recognized wine-making region known in the U.S. as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). Missouri has 5 designated AVAs. 
4. Varietal – 
   1. A varietal is the grape used in making the wine. If the name is unique, the wine is likely a proprietary blend of grapes. 
5. Estate bottled – 
   1. This designation means the grapes were grown and the wine was produced, aged and bottled by the winery listed. 
6. Scale –
   1. On the back of the bottles there sometimes is a dry to sweet scale. This is not required but is very helpful. 

By breaking down and understanding wine labels it can completely transform the way you perceive wine. It can allow the experience to be fun and delightful! Familiarizing yourself with key elements on a wine bottle allow you to make informed choices and discover new favorites. Remember try new things and enjoy the wine you like! Next time you are in the wine aisle, take a moment to read the labels and enjoy the journey of discovering great Missouri wines. Cheers!