9+ Best Wine for People Who Don’t Like Wine – Discover Wine Magic

Not everyone indeed finds pleasure in the taste of wine. So, what kind of wine for people who don’t like wine? Generally, wines that are light, sweet, less aromatic, and low in tannins tend to be more suitable. Richer wines can be overpowering and may not be well-received by beginners.

In this guide, I will provide you with all the essential information to help you embark on your wine-drinking journey successfully, especially if you’re new to it. Continue reading to discover how you can get started!

1. Why do some people dislike wine?

There are various reasons why individuals might not appreciate wine, which can be attributed to factors such as its distinct taste and alcohol content. Additionally, some people may not like wine due to the following reasons:

• Lack of familiarity: Those who are new to wine might still need to acquire a taste for it.
• Negative experiences: Previous unpleasant encounters with wine could lead to a dislike for it.
• Unidentified preferred style: Some individuals have not found a wine style that suits their taste preferences.
• Changing preferences: Personal taste preferences can evolve, causing a shift in one’s attitude towards wine.
• Calorie concerns: People aiming to watch their calorie intake may avoid the calories present in wine.
• Alcohol avoidance: Some individuals may choose to refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages altogether.

If you find yourself unable to comprehend the popularity of wine, it is possible that you have yet to discover your personal favorite. Alternatively, you may feel overwhelmed by the multitude of options available. If you are unsure of where to begin, there’s no need to worry! We will guide you through each category to assist you in finding your ideal wine match.

2. What Is the Best Wine for Non-Wine Drinkers?

Understanding which wines are suitable for beginners and which ones are not is essential in converting non-wine drinkers into wine enthusiasts. 

While the ultimate choice of the best wine for non-wine drinkers depends on individual preferences, there are key characteristics that can aid you in discovering the wine that aligns with your taste.

Let’s take a look at a few:

Light

Some wines exhibit such heaviness and textural richness that they can be overwhelming for first-time drinkers. While experienced wine enthusiasts may appreciate their complex flavors, these wines can be a bit too intense for someone who is just beginning their wine journey. 

Opting for lighter-bodied wines can result in a smoother experience and be more approachable for first-time drinkers.

Sweet

Among the wide array of flavors that wine offers, beginners often find sweeter ones more appealing. This preference is because sweet wines possess a milder aromatic profile and are reminiscent of other beverages such as juice.

Some wines can be incredibly rich and textured, which may prove overwhelming for individuals new to wine. While the complex flavors of these wines are often admired by seasoned drinkers, they can be a lot for someone who is just starting their wine exploration. Opting for lighter-bodied wines can provide a smoother experience and be more enjoyable for beginners, as they are generally easier to approach and appreciate.

3. Red Wines for People Who Don’t Like Wine

Excited to delve into the realm of red wines? You’re in for a delightful experience! However, it’s important not to begin with something overly robust, as it might potentially deter your appreciation for red wine. Instead, consider embarking on your journey with these exceptional options:

Syrah

Although Syrah may not be the lightest or sweetest among red wines, its diverse range of flavors can be appealing to beginners with more refined palates. Syrah wines, also known as Shiraz wines, offer a variety of flavor profiles, including some with spicy notes.

For the optimal experience, Syrah wines are best paired with cheeses and meats. They often exhibit fruity characteristics, such as blackberry flavors, adding to their overall appeal.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir, known for its lightness among red wines, is an excellent choice for beginners. Unlike other varietals, Pinot Noir does not overwhelm with intense flavors or weight, making it more approachable for those who are new to wine.

Pinot Noir wines typically exhibit berry flavors and possess a silky texture that glides smoothly. For an optimal experience, consider pairing this wine with fish, as it pairs particularly well with salmon.

Merlot

With its lower tannin levels, Merlot serves as an ideal entry point for individuals venturing into the world of red wines. Known for their sweetness, fruity notes, and lightness, Merlot wines are gentle on the palates and digestive systems of beginners. 

If you choose Merlot as your gateway into the realm of red wine, I suggest pairing it with poultry dishes like chicken, as they harmonize well with the natural flavors found in Merlot wines.

4+ Best Red Varietals for People Who don’t Like Wine

Best for Fruity Dishes

Red wine does not have to be overpowering. There are fruit-forward varieties that are more subtle, even sweet:

• Brachetto d’Acqui: A sweet red wine from Piedmont, Italy, with a raspberry aftertaste that pairs well with chocolate desserts. This one is also semi-sparkling, making it suitable for date nights or after-dinner drinks.
• Lambrusco: When fermented to dolce, or very sweet, Italian Lambrusco tastes more like a mixed berry beverage than red wine. It can also be found as a dry wine, so read the labels if you prefer something more subtle.   

Best for Tannins

Tannins are a compound found in red wines such as cabernet sauvignon that turn off non-wine drinkers due to their puckering effects. 

If you’re looking for red wines with less tannin, try these:

• Pinot noir: Pinot noir is frequently regarded as the “gateway” red wine. It’s a lighter, less dry red wine with low tannins in comparison to other reds.
• Beaujolais Nouveau: This is a popular holiday wine from the Beaujolais region of France, and it’s only available around the holidays. This variety should be served chilled.

4. White Wines for People Who Don’t Like Wine

While white wines may not carry the intimidating reputation that red wines do among beginners or individuals who generally dislike wine, it is still important to select the most suitable option when starting. 

In essence, white wines offer an incredible range of flavors, and it is crucial, to begin with the right type to ensure a positive first impression.

Chardonnay

Even if you’re not well-versed in wines, chances are you’ve come across the name Chardonnay. This grape varietal enjoys significant recognition for a reason: while it possesses a fuller body and velvety texture compared to other white wines, Chardonnay is crafted in a diverse range of flavors and tends to be less dry than most red wines.

Chardonnay can exhibit creamy notes, citrus undertones, or even hints of vanilla. This wide spectrum of flavors makes Chardonnay a favorable starting point for those seeking a wine that offers tastes even beginners can appreciate.

Moscato

Moscato wines, often enjoyed as a dessert due to their sweetness, are renowned for their fruity flavors. The pronounced sweetness of these wines makes them an ideal starting point for individuals who are not fond of traditional wine flavors. 

Typically, Moscato wines exhibit grapefruit-like flavors and fruity aromas, resembling juice in certain aspects. As a result, they are considered one of the best wine options for those who do not typically enjoy wine.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc wines are well-suited for beginners due to their relatively gentle fruity and herbal flavors that don’t overpower the palate. Commonly found flavors include apples, gooseberries, mango, and pear, providing a pleasant and approachable taste experience. 

Many Sauvignon Blanc varieties also feature vibrant aromas that are not off-putting to individuals who are new to wine consumption.

5+ Best While Varietals

Best For Sweeter Tastes

If you’re looking for something sweet, there’s a white wine for you:

• Riesling: This is one of the sweeter white wines available, with apricot and pear flavors that add acidity and balance.
• Moscato: This Italian sweet wine is made from the Muscat grape. While white is the most common color, some varieties are sparkling, pink, and even approaching red. Moscato dessert wine varieties will provide the sweetness you seek.
• Chardonnay: While a dry Chardonnay is more acidic and fruity, full-oaked varieties can be buttery, and nutty, and even have hints of vanilla.

Best For Low-Calorie Sipping

Drier white wines are typically lower in calories and residual sugar than sweeter white wines. Almost all white wines have fewer calories per ounce than red wines. 

Choose from the options below if you want to reduce your wine consumption solely based on calories: 

• Sauvignon Blanc (white wine): Because of its tarts, and fruity flavors like grapefruit and green apple, Sauvignon Blanc is a popular light-bodied summer wine. If you’re looking for something light without the buzz, there’s probably a low-calorie, non-alcoholic version. Our white wine has only 40 calories per 8 oz pour!
• Viognier: This crisp addition to the wine world is a blend of two grapes with stonefruit notes. It has the same number of calories as a Sauvignon Blanc but less acidity than other white wines like pinot grigio.

You might be interested in: 

• Common Problems With Wine Coolers | Reasons and Solutions
• Is A 20 QT Cooler Big Enough? – Here’s Your Answer
• Is Igloo a Good Cooler? – Find Out What the Experts Say

5. Which sweet wine is recommended for beginners?

If you’re searching for a sweet and delicious wine that doesn’t come across as overly “wine-y” for your initial exploration, I suggest trying the Wild Vines Blackberry Merlot. This popular wine offers a consistency reminiscent of juice and a delightful level of sweetness, ensuring it won’t overwhelm you with a heavy body or unpleasant aftertastes.

The balanced sweetness of this option also makes it less bitter, increasing the chances of it being appealing to individuals who aren’t regular wine drinkers. However, it’s worth noting that the sweetness is not overpowering, avoiding any off-putting sugary sensations.

6. What are some ways to enjoy wine if you don’t currently like it?

If you’re unsure how to begin your journey of drinking wine, these simple tips can help you get started. While they may not guarantee that you’ll become an instant wine enthusiast, they will assist you in becoming accustomed to the distinct flavors and textures that accompany wine consumption:

Drink it with cheese

If you don’t have any fruit readily available or simply prefer not to consume it, cheese is an excellent alternative. Just like fruit, cheese can be a wonderful accompaniment to wine, as it helps counteract bitterness and overpower any lingering aftertastes that may not be to your liking. 

With a wide variety of cheeses to choose from, you can explore different textures and flavors to find the perfect pairing that complements your wine preferences. Enjoy the combination of wine and cheese for a delightful sensory experience.

Drink it with fruit

The natural sweetness of fruits can enhance the flavors of wine while also balancing its richness. Fruits like cherries or strawberries, for example, are effective in mitigating the bitter aftertaste often associated with wines, particularly the heavier varieties. 

You can have these fruits readily available and enjoy them alongside your wine, or you can even add them directly to your glass, savoring the combination of drinking and eating as you go.

Add ice

If you find a wine to be too heavy for your taste, one option is to consider adding ice. This simple technique can help reduce the weightiness of the wine and also mellow out some of the stronger flavors that may accompany it. The ice will gradually melt, subtly diluting the wine and providing a lighter, more refreshing drinking experience. 

However, keep in mind that this method may alter the wine’s intended flavor profile, so it’s important to experiment and find the balance that suits your preferences.

7. FAQs

How can I drink wine if I don’t like wine?

If you don’t enjoy the taste of wine but still want to explore the world of wine, here are a few suggestions to make the experience more enjoyable:

• Experiment with different varieties
• Start with sweeter wines
• Try wine cocktails
• Pair wine with food
• Explore alternative wine-based beverages

What wine does not taste bitter?

Wines with lower alcohol content, such as Moscato and Lambrusco, tend to exhibit less bitterness. Astringency, which imparts a drying sensation in the mouth, is more pronounced in red wines that contain higher levels of tannins derived from seeds, skins and stems. 

In comparison, white wines generally offer a lesser degree of astringency when compared to their red counterparts. If you prefer to avoid astringent sensations, opting for white wines can be a suitable choice.

What’s a good red wine for beginners?

For individuals new to wine, white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and sparkling wines like Prosecco are often recommended as excellent choices. These varieties tend to be approachable and have flavors that appeal to a wide range of palates. 

When it comes to red wines, it’s advisable to start with options that have moderate tannin levels to avoid overwhelming bitterness. Bondarda, Pinot Noir, and Red Zinfandel are suggested as great red wine options for beginners to begin their exploration. The Wine School of Philadelphia also recommends these selections as favorable starting points for those embarking on their wine journey.

How do you drink wine without taste?

If you are unable to taste wine due to a medical condition or other reason, you can still enjoy the experience of drinking wine by focusing on the other sensory aspects such as the aroma, appearance, and texture.

To begin with, you can appreciate the color and clarity of the wine by holding it up to the light and observing its hue. Next, you can swirl the wine around in your glass to release its aroma and take in its bouquet. Even without being able to taste the wine, you can still appreciate the complexity of its aromas.

What is the easiest wine to drink?

The easiest wine to drink would depend on personal preferences, but generally speaking, wines that are considered easy to drink are those that are light-bodied, low in tannins, and have a balanced level of acidity. 

Some popular examples of easy-drinking wines include pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc, rosé, and some red wines like Merlot and pinot noir. These wines tend to have fruit-forward flavors and a smooth finish, making them pleasant to drink on their own or paired with various foods. 

Can a beginner drink wine?

Yes, a beginner can drink wine. However, it is important to remember that alcohol should always be consumed in moderation. If you are new to drinking wine, it may be helpful to start with smaller quantities and gradually work your way up. 

Additionally, it can be useful to learn about the different types of wine, their flavors, and what foods they pair well with. This can help you better appreciate and enjoy the experience of drinking wine.

How do I make myself like red wine?

Developing a taste for red wine can take some time and patience, especially if you are not used to drinking it. Here are some tips that may help you acquire a taste for red wine:

• Start with lighter-bodied red wines: Some red wines are lighter in body and flavor than others. Examples include Pinot Noir and Beaujolais. These wines may be easier to drink for those who are new to red wines, as they are not as heavy or tannic.
• Experiment with different types of red wine: There are many different types of red wine, each with its unique flavor profile. Trying different varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Zinfandel can help you find one that suits your taste buds.
• Pair your wine with food: Red wine is often paired with hearty meat dishes, such as steak or lamb. The flavors in the food can complement the wine and make it more enjoyable to drink.
• Serve at the right temperature: Serving red wine at the appropriate temperature can enhance the flavor and make it more palatable. Generally, red wine should be served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C).
• Practice: The more you drink red wine, the more familiar your palate becomes with its flavors. Over time, you may find yourself enjoying it more and more.

Which wine is smoother?

When it comes to wine, the term “smooth” can be subjective and vary depending on personal preferences. However, in general, wines that are considered smooth tend to have low levels of tannins and acidity.

Some examples of red wines that are often described as smooth include Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Syrah. These wines tend to have a softer mouthfeel with less noticeable tannins, making them more approachable for people who are not used to drinking red wine. On the other hand, wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec may have more pronounced tannins, which can give them a bolder taste and heavier mouthfeel.

Conclusion

Discovering wine for people who don’t like wine can be easier than anticipated. If you’ve previously tried wine without much enthusiasm but are now interested in giving it another chance, follow the guidance provided in this guide.

In general, it’s advisable to begin your wine exploration with lighter or sweeter white wines, as they tend to be more approachable. This approach increases your chances of long-term success in developing a taste for wine. 

As you continue your journey, you’ll gradually identify your preferences and potentially evolve into an avid wine enthusiast. Make sure to take into account the white and red wines suggested in this guide as you progress on your wine-tasting adventure.