How to Read a Wine Label Like a Sommelier: What Matters & What Doesn’t

Confused by wine labels? You're not alone. In this episode, I’m coming to you straight from the Venetian in Las Vegas to break down everything you need to know about decoding wine labels—so you can buy smarter and drink better.

From grape varieties to buzzwords like reserve and old vine, I’m sharing exactly what matters, what’s just marketing fluff, and how to spot quality with just a glance. We’ll explore the difference between Old World and New World labeling, what “estate bottled” actually means, and why “contains sulfites” isn’t the red flag you think it is.

Whether you’re staring down a wall of bottles at your local shop or planning a visit to a vineyard, this crash course will give you the confidence to pick the perfect bottle—every time.

 

In this episode:

• How to instantly tell if a wine is labeled by grape or region
• What “vintage,” “ABV,” and “AVA” actually tell you
• Why terms like reserve might mean nothing at all
• How to spot wines from sustainable and organic producers
• Tips for shopping at a wine store vs. grocery store
• What your wine label is really trying to tell you

 

Want help decoding a label you’ve found?

Send me a photo on social or email me at cheers@thewineguy.vin and I’ll help you break it down.