How to Speak Wine
Gewurztraminer
SAY IT Guh-VURTS-trah-mee-ner
Even wine snobs argue over the correct pronunciation (some swear it's guh-vurts-TRAH-min-er), so play it safe and just call the tasty white by its nickname, "Guh-VURTS." This full-bodied bottle makes fast friends with spicy takeout.
Agiorgitiko
SAY IT Ah-yor-YEE-tee-koh
This name could stump even a U.N. translator, but if you work your way through all five syllables, you'll be rewarded with a deliciously aromatic, plummy red charmer from Greece's Peloponnese region.
Dolcetto
SAY IT Dol-CHET-toe
No need to consult an Italian speaker. Just think ch-ch-chcheap when you see the label. Dolcetto delivers great fruit flavor, floral aromas and low tannins, all of which justify the name: "little sweet one."
Vinho Verde
SAY IT GROO-ner FELT-lee-ner
When you ask for this Austrian white (in a toothy Schwarzenegger accent, of course), you'll get a mouthful in return: a bright, lip-smacking white with hints of grapefruit and a dash of white pepper.
Gruner Veltliner
SAY IT GROO-ner FELT-lee-ner
When you ask for this Austrian white (in a toothy Schwarzenegger accent, of course), you'll get a mouthful in return: a bright, lip-smacking white with hints of grapefruit and a dash of white pepper.
Chinon
SAY IT She-NOHN
A delicious stand-in for pricy pinot noir, this light red is made from the cabernet franc grape, and its acidity makes it a great match for seafood. You'll sound like a French aristocrat ordering it.