Life is all about exploration and constant learning. In the search to continuously broaden our horizons, we grow.

So why don't we start a little game this New Year? Let's embark on a little game of discovery. Here are five ways to refresh your wine experiences and uncover new favorites.

1. Start with What You Know and Love

If you have one wine that's your absolute favorite, you always pick it out once friends come over, and begin there. Find out why you like it so much. It might be the bold tannins of a Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo, the zesty freshness of a Sauvignon Blanc, or maybe the fruity simplicity of a Primitivo. Trying to find out what you love is the first step in discovering wines that will please you.

Let's give you an example: If you adore a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, you have to try a Sancerre from France or a Vermentino from Italy, too. The one is based on the same grape variety deriving from a different region and climate whilst the other is a grape variety that shares similar attributes to Sauvignon Blanc. Staying in your comfort zone while adding a slight change can open the door to new possibilities without overwhelming your taste buds.

2. Try a New Grape Variety

One of the most exciting aspects of wine is its incredible diversity, with over 10,000 grape varieties worldwide. Yet, despite this abundance, most of us tend to stick to the same familiar handful of grapes. Why? Because it's within our comfort zone—we know them well, there are no surprises, and everything feels predictable. This is similar to the success story of Coca-Cola: we know exactly what to expect. But why not take the opportunity this new year to explore lesser-known regions and expand our horizons?

If you're a fan of reds, swap your usual Pinot Noir for a Gamay. Enjoy whites? Exchange your beloved Chardonnay for a Grüner Veltliner or Albariño.

Love sparkling wines? Seek out a Franciacorta instead of Champagne.

Discovering a new grape variety can sometimes enlighten you and bring hidden treasures. Each variety brings its own unique flavors, aromas, and textures, enriching your experiences in wine.

3. Explore a New Wine Region

Wine as such often is an expression of the place where it is grown. The beautiful valleys of Argentina, the volcanic soils of Sicily, these are only two in an array of places of which each one tells its own story. Go, and try something new. The unknown is something people are afraid of, but if you do not try you will never know what those new regions and wine styles are like.

If you're a fan of French wines for instance, why don't you try South African Chenin Blanc or Lebanese blends from the Bekaa Valley? Enthusiasts for Californian wine might enjoy the refined elegance of Oregon Pinot Noirs or the bold, earthy notes of Spanish Tempranillo from Rioja.

Regional exploration isn't just about flavor; it is way more than this. Culture, history, and terroir all come along.

4. Experiment with a New Wine Style

Have you ever tried an orange wine? Or maybe a pét-nat (pétillant naturel) or a sherry? Trying new wine styles will for sure act as an eye-opener.

What we know as orange wine can be pretty surprising. Those wines are made from white grapes fermented with their skins, and they do offer a tannic structure, something one would not really expect from a white wine as tannins are generally linked to red wines.

On top of that are the complex flavors that will for sure challenge conventional expectations. Pét-nats, with their natural fizz and rustic charm, are perfect for casual sipping. And fortified wines like sherry or Madeira offer depth and richness for adventurous palates.

5. Give Non-Alcoholic Wines a Chance

In a world that's becoming increasingly mindful of wellness, non-alcoholic wines are carving out their niche. They've come a long way from sugary imitations and now offer complexity and depth that rival traditional wines.

Whether you're observing Dry January or simply curious, non-alcoholic wines can be a refreshing and responsible addition to your repertoire. Look for options from producers who focus on quality, using innovative techniques to retain the essence of wine without the alcohol.

You might be surprised by the craftsmanship and diversity in this growing category.

Make It a Game, Share the Experience

The beauty of exploring wine is that it's not just about what's in the glass—it's about the journey and the connections you make along the way. Share your discoveries with friends, host a tasting night, or document your findings in a wine journal.

The more you taste, the more you learn, and the more confident you become in understanding what you enjoy.

Cheers to New Beginnings

Wine is more than a beverage; it's a gateway to culture, community, and endless learning. As we step into this new year, why not make "exploring new wines" one of your New Year's resolutions?

So, raise your glass to the New Year and the endless possibilities it brings. Make 2025 the year you discover new favorites, broaden your palate, and turn every pour into an unforgettable experience.

Lotte Gabrovits