Best Online Sources for Upping Your Wine IQ

Tuesday, 7 December, 2021
Forbes, Lana Bortolot
The ways in which we can learn about wine are increasing all the time—through dedicated websites, online publications, podcasts, books, industry reports and social media. In part 1 of this series on wine know-how, Forbes will offer up a few sources of virtual inspiration, information and (sometimes) entertainment.

Online publications, some of which duplicate their print components, others of which are digital-first, are the most accessible source of current information. Many have paywalls or subscription models but also offer select free content.

Decanter. Founded in 1975, the granddaddy of UK-based wine magazines is authoritative but not stuffy, with some of the world’s most respected critics on board. Focused on reviews, trends, country-specific features and wine-related travel. Some online content is free, but most of the juicy stuff is accessed via a “Premium” paid subscription.

Harpers. The UK-based site provides regional news, analysis and trade information (research, legislation, markets). Some older content is free, but most require a subscription.

Jancis Robinson, The “Purple Pages” by the master of wine, educator and author is considered one of the foremost authorities on all things wine. Free content on some of the basics. Discount membership with a membership in GuildSomm.

Meininger’s Wine Business International, a leading news site of analysis, trends, marketing insights, regional updates and regional “Power Lists.”

PUNCH. If there’s a drinks site for brainiacs, this is it—a James Beard Award-winning digi-mag with long-form features on drinks culture, overlooked and under appreciated products, trends and traditions.

Robert Parker Wine Advocate. Love him or hate him but credit Parker (now retired) for talking to the (rich) masses about wine. A roster of dedicated critics are regional experts and much of that content is behind a paywall, but there’s select free content on the site and in the “Wine Journal” vertical.

Seven Fifty Daily. Geared toward the wine and spirits trade (sommeliers, buyers, importers and distributors), the site covers business trends, products and regions, and general interest topics such as climate change, sustainability, work/life balance, education, certifications, professional development.

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