6 Common Wine Myths Busted

Wine is one of the most enjoyable and social beverages around, but it’s also wrapped in a fair share of myths and misconceptions. Some of the myths surrounding wine are pretty benign but some can negatively affect your ability to enjoy this nectar of the gods called wine.

In my latest video, I cover six popular wine myths, from why screw caps are not “cheap” closures to the truth about sulfites and wine headaches.

The Myths We Busted:

As a certified sommelier through the Court of Masters, I’ve encountered plenty of wine myths that can trip up even the most curious enthusiasts. Let’s clear the air on these six popular misconceptions, so you can enjoy your wine with confidence and fun!

Myth 1: Expensive Wine is Always Better

Price doesn’t always equal quality or enjoyment. Some affordable wines punch way above their cost, and some pricey bottles might not be your style at all. It’s all about finding what pleases your palate, not breaking the bank. In the video above, I go into other factors that impact the price of a wine that you may not be aware of.

Myth 2: White Wine Should Always Be Served Cold, Red Wine Room Temperature

Wine serving temperature isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sure, whites taste great chilled, but some whites shine with a little warmth. Reds shouldn’t be too hot or room temperature. Aim for cool to slightly chilled for most whites and slightly below typical room temperature for reds. The video above includes a temperature chart to help you.

Myth 3: Screw Caps Mean Cheap Wine

This old idea is outdated. Screw caps preserve freshness, prevent cork taint, and are now widely used on high-quality wines, especially in Australia, New Zealand, and growingly in the United States. Many top producers trust screw caps for their best bottles.

Myth 4: You Must Decant All Red Wines

Decanting can improve some reds, especially older bottles or big tannic wines. But it’s not mandatory for all reds. Many modern bottles are crafted to be enjoyed right from the bottle. In the video above, I also talk about when it makes sense to decant white wines.

Myth 5: Red Wine and/or Sulphites Give Me Headaches

Headaches from wine are complex, and sulphites aren’t usually the culprit unless you have a specific sensitivity. Often, compounds like histamines and tannins, dehydration, or simply drinking too much play a bigger role. In the video above we go deeper on this topic and include statistics to help you make sense of this debate.

Myth 6: Pairing Wine Rules Are Strict

Wine and food pairing is more about balance and personal taste than strict rules. Don’t stress perfect matches! Experiment and find what delicious combinations work for you and your guests.

Why It Matters:

Knowing the facts helps you taste more confidently, choose wines you love without guilt, and impress friends with your savvy knowledge. So next time you’re at a wine shop or dinner party, you’ll have the right info to share.

I’d love to know which wine myth surprised you the most. Drop a comment below or share your own wine myth story!