Mumbai (Harshit Yadav): Wine is a drink that embodies elegance and enjoyment, but even seasoned wine lovers can unknowingly make mistakes that impact the experience. To help refine your wine habits in 2025, we spoke to Jerry Chandler, a wine consultant and general manager of The Bohemian Wine Bar in Charlotte. Chandler shared five common mistakes many of us make—and how to fix them to elevate your wine game.
- Serving Wine at the Wrong Temperature.
The first misstep? Serving white wine too cold and red wine too warm. “Neither can express their full aromatic potential when served at the wrong temperature,” says Chandler. For whites, aim for 40-50°F to unlock dynamic flavors. Reds are best served slightly cooler than room temperature, around 50-60°F. A simple solution? Chill your red wine in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving, or take your white wine out of the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let it warm slightly. Chandler warns against freezing wine, though: “Forget about it in the freezer, and you risk ruining its sugars.” - Improperly Popping Sparkling Wine
The celebratory pop of Champagne might seem festive, but it reduces carbonation and can be dangerous. Chandler suggests leaving the cage on the cork while twisting it gently to release pressure slowly. This preserves more bubbles and avoids accidents. “Never remove the cage first—it’s like opening a loaded spring,” Chandler explains. With this technique, your sparkling wine will be lively without losing its fizz. - Storing Wine Incorrectly.
Wine is sensitive to light, heat, and movement, yet many people neglect proper storage. “Leaving wine in direct sunlight, a hot car, or a place with fluctuating temperatures can ruin its flavor,” Chandler says. The solution? Store bottles on their side in a cool, dark, and stable environment. Even if you plan to drink it within a few days, mindful storage prevents waste and ensures the wine tastes its best. - Being a Packaging Snob.
In the past, heavy bottles and cork closures signified quality, but sustainability and technological advancements have shifted the landscape. Chandler notes that screw tops, lighter bottles, and even boxed or canned wines can deliver excellent flavour. “Science has improved wine preservation significantly,” he says, encouraging drinkers to embrace modern packaging options and avoid judging a wine by its closure. - Sticking to the Same Wines.
Many wine enthusiasts stick to familiar bottles, limiting their palate. Chandler advises breaking out of your comfort zone. “Mass-produced wines often contain additives to maintain a consistent flavor profile,” he warns. Instead, explore lesser-known varietals and engage with wine professionals for recommendations based on your preferences. “Wine is an endless experience,” Chandler says. “The more adventurous you are, the more rewarding it becomes.”
Final Thoughts.
Elevating your wine habits doesn’t require expert-level knowledge, just a few tweaks to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re adjusting temperatures, opening sparkling wine safely, or venturing beyond your go-to bottles, these tips will help you enjoy wine the way it was meant to be savoured. As Chandler puts it, “Wine is about exploration. Let 2025 be the year you discover something new.”
