Metro Wines Blog - Metro Wines Asheville

The pop of a cork, the cascade of bubbles, the celebratory toast – few things in the wine world capture joy quite like sparkling wine. Yet beyond the festive moments, there's a fascinating world of craftsmanship, tradition, and variety that many wine lovers never fully explore. Whether you're planning a special celebration or simply want to elevate your everyday wine knowledge, understanding sparkling wine opens doors to some of the most elegant and food-friendly wines available.

At Metro Wines in Asheville, we see customers light up when they discover the depth and diversity of sparkling wines. From true Champagne to exceptional alternatives, these effervescent treasures offer something for every palate and budget. Let's uncork the secrets behind those magical bubbles and help you navigate this sparkling landscape with confidence.

1. What Makes Champagne Special

True Champagne isn't just sparkling wine with a fancy name – it's a product of one of the world's most prestigious and protected wine regions. Located in northeastern France, the Champagne region operates under strict regulations that have been refined over centuries. Only sparkling wine produced in this specific area, using designated grape varieties and traditional methods, can legally bear the Champagne name.

The Unique Terroir of Champagne

The region's unique terroir plays a crucial role in Champagne's distinctive character. The chalky soils provide excellent drainage while retaining moisture, and the cool climate creates ideal conditions for growing grapes with high acidity – essential for quality sparkling wine. The primary grape varieties used are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, each contributing different characteristics to the final blend.

Traditional Methods and Craftsmanship

What truly sets Champagne apart is the combination of this exceptional terroir with the méthode champenoise, a labor-intensive production process that creates complex flavors and that signature fine mousse of bubbles. The investment in time, tradition, and craftsmanship is why authentic Champagne commands premium prices and holds its place as the gold standard for sparkling wine worldwide.

2. The Traditional Method Explained

The méthode champenoise, also known as the traditional method, is a fascinating process that transforms still wine into the sparkling masterpiece we know and love. Understanding this method helps appreciate why great sparkling wine requires such patience and skill.

Creating the Base Wine

The process begins with creating a base wine from carefully selected grapes. This still wine is then blended – often combining different grape varieties, vineyards, and even vintages to achieve the desired style. The magic happens next: a mixture of sugar and yeast called the tirage is added to the wine, which is then bottled and sealed.

Second Fermentation and Aging

During the second fermentation that follows, the yeast consumes the added sugar, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide. Since the bottle is sealed, the CO2 dissolves into the wine, creating those coveted bubbles. This fermentation typically takes several weeks, but the wine then ages on its lees (dead yeast cells) for months or even years, developing complex flavors and aromas.

Riddling and Disgorgement

The final steps involve riddling and disgorgement – processes that remove the sediment while preserving the bubbles. A small amount of wine mixed with sugar, called the dosage, is often added to balance the wine's acidity and determine its sweetness level. This traditional method is time-consuming and requires significant expertise, but it produces sparkling wines with unmatched complexity and elegance.

3. Sparkling Wine Styles Around the World

While Champagne may be the most famous, sparkling wine production has flourished worldwide, with each region developing its own distinctive styles and characteristics. These alternatives offer excellent value and unique flavor profiles that deserve serious consideration.

Cava from Spain

Cava from Spain represents one of the world's best values in traditional method sparkling wine. Produced primarily in Catalonia using native grape varieties like Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada, Cava offers fresh, clean flavors with subtle fruit character. The Mediterranean climate and different grape varieties create a style that's distinct from Champagne while maintaining impressive quality at accessible prices.

Prosecco from Italy

Prosecco from Italy has gained tremendous popularity for its approachable, fruit-forward style. Made primarily from Glera grapes using the Charmat method (where second fermentation occurs in large tanks rather than individual bottles), Prosecco tends to be lighter, fresher, and more immediately appealing than traditional method sparkling wines. The best examples come from the Prosecco DOCG zones of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.

French Crémant

Crémant wines from various French regions outside Champagne offer traditional method quality at more moderate prices. Whether it's Crémant de Loire, Crémant d'Alsace, or Crémant de Burgundy, these wines follow similar production methods to Champagne but reflect their regional terroir and grape varieties.

American Sparkling Wines

American sparkling wines have achieved remarkable success, particularly from California's cool climate regions. Producers in Sonoma County, Napa Valley, and other coastal areas create outstanding traditional method sparkling wines that can compete with the world's best.

4. Understanding Sweetness Levels

One of the most confusing aspects of sparkling wine for many consumers is understanding sweetness levels, particularly since the terminology seems counterintuitive. The sweetness is determined by the dosage added after disgorgement, and the categories have specific technical definitions.

Driest Styles

Brut Nature or Zero Dosage contains no added sugar and represents the driest style possible. These wines showcase pure fruit character and terroir expression but require exceptional base wine quality since there's no dosage to balance any flaws.

Extra Brut contains minimal added sugar (0-6 grams per liter) and appeals to those who prefer bone-dry wines. This style has gained popularity among wine enthusiasts who appreciate its austere, mineral-driven character.

Most Popular Style

Brut is the most common style, containing 0-12 grams of residual sugar per liter. Despite the name suggesting dryness, most people find Brut sparkling wines pleasantly balanced rather than austere. This versatility makes Brut the ideal choice for most occasions and food pairings.

Off-Dry to Sweet Styles

Extra Dry (12-17 grams of sugar) is actually slightly sweeter than Brut, though still perceived as dry by most palates. This style often works well as an aperitif and pairs beautifully with lighter appetizers.

Sec (17-32 grams of sugar) and Demi-Sec (32-50 grams of sugar) represent progressively sweeter styles that pair wonderfully with desserts or can serve as dessert themselves.

5. How to Read Sparkling Wine Labels

Navigating sparkling wine labels becomes much easier once you understand the key terms and what they indicate about the wine's style and quality. Beyond the sweetness levels we've discussed, several other terms provide valuable information.

Vintage vs. Non-Vintage tells you about the wine's composition and aging. Vintage sparkling wines are made entirely from grapes harvested in a single exceptional year and typically require longer aging, resulting in more complex flavors and higher prices. Non-vintage wines blend multiple years to maintain consistency and house style, often representing better value for everyday drinking.

Blanc de Blancs means "white from whites" and indicates the wine is made entirely from white grapes, usually Chardonnay. These wines tend to be more delicate, mineral-driven, and age-worthy, with crisp acidity and citrus characteristics.

Blanc de Noirs translates to "white from blacks" and describes sparkling wine made from red grapes (typically Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier) vinified as white wine. These wines often show more body, richer fruit flavors, and sometimes a slight pink tinge.

Rosé sparkling wines achieve their color either through brief skin contact with red grapes or by blending red wine into the white base. Quality rosé sparkling wines offer additional complexity and pair beautifully with a wider range of foods.

Look for terms indicating production method – "Méthode Champenoise," "Traditional Method," or "Metodo Classico" all indicate the highest quality traditional production method, while "Charmat Method" or "Tank Method" suggests a fresher, more fruit-forward style.

6. Serving and Storage Tips

Proper service can make the difference between a good sparkling wine experience and a truly memorable one. Temperature, glassware, and opening technique all impact your enjoyment of these special wines.

Temperature matters significantly with sparkling wine. The ideal serving temperature is 40-45°F (4-7°C), which preserves the bubbles while allowing the wine's flavors to express themselves. Too cold, and you'll miss subtle aromas and flavors; too warm, and the wine becomes flabby with aggressive bubbles.

Glassware choice affects both aroma and bubble retention. While flutes remain popular for their elegant appearance and bubble preservation, many wine professionals now prefer tulip-shaped glasses or even white wine glasses for premium sparkling wines. These shapes concentrate aromas better and allow for proper swirling and appreciation of complex wines.

Opening technique requires patience and finesse rather than dramatic cork-popping. Remove the foil and loosen the wire cage while keeping your thumb over the cork. Hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle, grip the cork firmly, and twist the bottle (not the cork) slowly until the cork releases with a gentle sigh rather than a loud pop. This preserves more CO2 and prevents overflow.

For storage, keep sparkling wine bottles on their sides in a cool, dark place with minimal vibration. Unlike still wines, sparkling wines don't generally improve with extended aging once purchased, though vintage Champagnes can develop beautifully over time under proper conditions.

7. Food Pairing Guidelines

Sparkling wine's versatility with food often surprises people who think of it only as an aperitif or celebration drink. The combination of effervescence, acidity, and diverse flavor profiles makes sparkling wine one of the most food-friendly wine styles available.

Classic pairings include oysters and Champagne, a combination that works because the wine's acidity and bubbles cleanse the palate between briny, rich bites. Caviar and blini with crème fraîche create another legendary pairing, where the wine's elegance matches the luxury of the accompaniments.

Fried foods find their perfect match in sparkling wine, as the bubbles and acidity cut through oil and refresh the palate. Think tempura, fried chicken, or even potato chips – the contrast creates a delightful sensory experience.

Cheese pairings work wonderfully with sparkling wine's range of styles. Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert complement Blanc de Blancs, while aged cheeses pair beautifully with more structured vintage sparkling wines. The key is matching intensity levels.

Asian cuisine offers exciting pairing opportunities, particularly with off-dry sparkling wines that can handle spice and complex flavors. Sushi, Thai food, and Chinese dishes all work well when you consider the wine's sweetness level and the dish's flavor intensity.

Don't overlook sparkling wine with dessert – demi-sec styles pair beautifully with fruit tarts, wedding cake, or chocolate desserts, while the wine's acidity prevents palate fatigue.

8. When to Splurge vs. Save

Understanding when to invest in premium bottles versus when to choose value options helps you build a smart sparkling wine collection while staying within budget. The key is matching the wine to the occasion and your specific needs.

Splurge occasions include milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, or when you want to impress wine-knowledgeable guests. Vintage Champagne, grower Champagne, or premium domestic sparkling wines offer complexity and prestige that justify higher prices. These wines reward careful attention and pair beautifully with fine cuisine.

Value opportunities abound in the sparkling wine world. High-quality Cava, Crémant wines, and well-made Prosecco offer excellent drinking experiences at fraction of Champagne prices. These wines work beautifully for casual entertaining, brunch parties, or when you want sparkling wine's festive character without the premium price tag.

Everyday sparkling wines make sense for regular enjoyment. Many wine lovers find that having a bottle of good sparkling wine in the refrigerator transforms ordinary moments into small celebrations. Quality doesn't have to be expensive when you find reliable producers and styles you enjoy.

Consider your guests' preferences too – sophisticated wine lovers may appreciate vintage Champagne's complexity, while casual drinkers might prefer approachable Prosecco's fruit-forward style. Matching the wine to your audience ensures everyone enjoys the experience.

At Metro Wines, our sommelier staff can help you navigate these choices based on your specific occasion, budget, and taste preferences. We taste extensively to ensure our selections offer genuine value at every price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does sparkling wine last once opened? 

Sparkling wine loses its effervescence relatively quickly once opened. With a proper sparkling wine stopper, most bottles maintain acceptable bubble levels for 1-3 days in the refrigerator. Higher quality wines with finer bubbles often last longer than those with larger, more aggressive bubbles.

Should I age sparkling wine? 

Most sparkling wines are ready to drink upon release and don't benefit from additional aging. However, vintage Champagnes and premium traditional method sparkling wines can develop beautifully over 5-10 years, gaining complexity while maintaining freshness.

What's the difference between expensive and cheap sparkling wine? 

Price differences typically reflect production methods, aging time, grape quality, and regional prestige. Traditional method wines cost more due to labor-intensive production, while tank method wines offer good value for casual drinking. Champagne's premium prices reflect both quality and regional exclusivity.

Can I cook with sparkling wine? 

Absolutely! Sparkling wine adds elegance to risottos, sauces, and marinades. The bubbles dissipate during cooking, leaving behind the wine's flavor contributions. Use the same quality you'd drink – if it's not good enough to drink, it's not good enough to cook with.

How do I know if sparkling wine has gone bad? 

Signs of spoiled sparkling wine include musty or vinegar-like aromas, brown or oxidized color, or completely flat texture. Quality sparkling wine should smell fresh and fruity with persistent, fine bubbles.

Conclusion

The world of sparkling wine offers endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment. From understanding Champagne's prestigious traditions to exploring exceptional alternatives from around the globe, developing your sparkling wine knowledge enhances every celebration and creates new possibilities for food pairing and everyday pleasure.

Remember that the best sparkling wine is the one you enjoy drinking. While technical knowledge helps you make informed choices, personal preference ultimately guides your selections. Start with different styles and price points to discover what appeals to your palate, then build from there.

Whether you're planning a special celebration or simply want to add more sparkle to your wine repertoire, visit us at Metro Wines where our knowledgeable staff can guide you to the perfect bottles for any occasion. We're always happy to help you explore this effervescent world and find sparkling wines that bring joy to your table.

Want to learn more? Read our blog on why aging improves wine, or our other blog topics here. You can shop our online store as well!

Ordering wine should be as enjoyable as sipping it. Whether you’re at an upscale restaurant, a cozy bistro, or browsing the shelves at Metro Wines, knowing proper wine etiquette elevates your experience—and shows respect for the craft, the server, and your fellow guests. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every stage of the wine-ordering journey: from reading the wine list to pouring that first delightful sip. By mastering these nuances, you’ll order with confidence, discover new favorites, and make every glass count.

Reading the Wine List Like a Pro

When you first glance at a wine list—whether displayed as a printed menu, chalkboard, or digital screen—it can feel overwhelming. Columns of regions, vintages, varietals, and price points can blur together. The key is to approach the list methodically, just as you would any menu, but with a few wine-focused considerations.

1. Begin by noting the major categories. 

These include parkling wines, rosés, whites, reds, and dessert wines. Within each category, items are often arranged by body or sweetness level—light, medium, then full-bodied. For instance, under whites, you may find a crisp, unoaked Pinot Grigio listed before a richer, barrel‑aged Chardonnay. Prices typically ascend in tandem with perceived prestige or rarity.

2. Next, look for regional groupings. 

Many lists follow Old World to New World progression—think France, Italy, Spain, then California, Australia, and beyond. Recognizing familiar appellations (e.g., Burgundy, Rioja, Napa Valley) helps you anchor your choice. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the regional path less trodden. For example, exploring a Malbec from Mendoza instead of your usual Merlot can lead to delicious discoveries.

3. Finally, take note of vintages. 

In good years, even modest labels can deliver outstanding quality. If you see a 2015 Bordeaux for an attractive price, it may well outshine a pricier 2018 of lesser renown. Conversely, avoid placing undue emphasis on age for varieties that are meant to be enjoyed young—such as most Sauvignon Blancs or many New Zealand Pinots.

Engaging the Wine Professional

At Metro Wines, our passion lies in personal shopping assistance. Whether you’re in our Asheville shop near New Belgium Brewing or dialing in through our online chat, our experienced team members stand ready to guide you. Don’t hesitate to flag down a staff member or hit the “Ask Metro Wines” button on our website when you encounter an intimidating list.

When you approach a wine pro, share details about:

1. Your Occasion: Are you celebrating an anniversary, picking up a casual wine for tacos, or stocking up for a dinner party? Context is everything. For a backyard barbecue, we might recommend a versatile Zinfandel or an easy‑drinking rosé. For a milestone birthday, we’ll help you select something truly memorable, such as a 10‑year‑old Brunello di Montalcino.
2. Your Taste Preferences: Do you favor bold, tannic reds or crisp, mineral‑driven whites? Perhaps you’re drawn to citrus‑y aromatics or the floral lift of a well‑made Viognier. Even broad descriptors—“I like wines that taste like berries” or “I prefer light wines I can sip on a hot afternoon”—can steer us toward the perfect bottle.
3. Your Budget: Quality isn’t strictly linked to high price tags. Our team can unearth wallet‑friendly gems that deliver nuanced complexity. Simply let us know a comfortable range, and we’ll propose options that maximize value without skimping on character.

By engaging directly with a wine professional, you transform wine shopping from guesswork into an enlightening experience. You’ll learn about producers you’ve never heard of, expand your palate, and ultimately feel more confident in every bottle you bring home.

Decoding Bottle vs. Glass

Many restaurant wine lists demarcate offerings by bottle and by the glass. Deciding which format suits you depends on the context of your meal, the company you’re with, and your penchant for sampling.

1. By the Glass

Ordering by the glass offers the opportunity to taste without committing to a full bottle. It’s ideal for solo diners or small parties who wish to explore multiple varietals over the course of a meal. Keep in mind, though, that glass pours often carry a slight markup compared to the equivalent bottle price. They remain a great way to sample rare or premium wines without investing in the entire bottle.

2. By the Bottle

Conversely, sharing a bottle among friends can feel convivial—just ensure your group size is adequate to prevent the wine from lingering and losing vibrancy. If you’re dining with a partner or a small group of three to four, a 750 mL bottle typically pours five glasses, striking a nice balance between exploration and continuity.

Ask your server for the “house pour” size. Standard pours range from 5 to 6 ounces, but some establishments pour heftier tastings or economy‐style 4-ounce sips. Clarifying pour sizes helps you gauge how many glasses will fill a bottle and scrutinize cost‑per‑glass comparisons.

The Tasting Ritual: Evaluating Before You Commit

Whether ordering by the glass or the bottle, restaurants typically follow a time‑honored ritual: presenting the cork (for bottled selections), pouring a small sample, awaiting your approval, and then filling the rest of the glasses. This sequence isn’t mere pageantry; it ensures you receive exactly what you ordered and that the wine is sound.

When presented with the tasting pour:

• Observe the color. Tilt the glass against a white napkin or tablecloth. Whites deepen in hue with age, while reds lose brightness as they mature. A golden‑straw Chardonnay hints at some barrel aging, whereas a pale, almost greenish Sauvignon Blanc signals youth and freshness.
• Swirl gently to aerate the wine. This releases aromatics, making them more discernible.
• Smell deeply. Take note of primary fragrances—citrus, stone fruits, berries, herbs—and secondary notes like vanilla, toast, or earth. A subtle hint of cork (known as “cork taint”) or a sharp bacterial scent (“brett”) signals a flawed bottle, in which case you should politely decline.
• Sip and let the wine coat your entire palate. Evaluate its balance of acidity, tannins (in reds), alcohol warmth, fruit intensity, and finish. Does it feel harmonious and clean, or off-kilter and disjointed? If something feels off—beyond personal preference—it may indicate a fault.

Once you’re satisfied, signal your approval with a gentle nod or a verbal “That’s great, please go ahead.” From there, the server will fill your glass and, in the case of a bottle, circulate to top off each person’s pour.

To learn all about why Aging Improves Wine, check out our Blog post on the topic here! 

Decanting: When and Why It Matters

Decanting—pouring wine from its bottle into a separate vessel—serves two main purposes: aeration and sediment separation. Younger, robust reds (think big Syrahs, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Nebbiolos) benefit from exposure to oxygen, which helps soften tannins and unlock layers of aroma. Conversely, older vintages—especially those with visible sediment—merit decanting to leave grit behind in the bottle.

When to request decanting:

• Bold, young wines: A 2019 Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Barossa Shiraz may need an hour or two breathing time to reveal its full spectrum of flavors.
• Vintage treasures: An 18‑year‑old Bordeaux often carries sediment. Ask the sommelier to decant carefully, stopping before the last drops to avoid transferring solids into your glass.

If you’re unsure whether a wine would improve with decanting, simply ask: “Would you recommend aerating this bottle?” Most wine pros relish the chance to showcase a wine’s best self.

Confidently Asking Questions

There’s no such thing as a “stupid” wine question. Servers and sommeliers are trained to educate and delight, not judge. If you encounter unfamiliar grape names—like Grüner Veltliner or Tannat—or cryptic designations—such as “Super Tuscan” or “Grande Réserve”—ask for a brief explanation. Engaging your server in conversation transforms your wine order from rote selection into a meaningful learning opportunity.

Useful prompts include:

“Could you tell me more about this producer’s style?”
“What foods would pair well with this wine?”
“Is this vintage drinking well now, or should it age longer?”

These inquiries demonstrate genuine curiosity and pave the way for personalized recommendations that accentuate your meal. In addition, servers often appreciate guests who show interest—they’ll gladly share their favorite finds or special allocations not on the public list.

The Asheville School of Wine is an excellent resource to learn about wine enjoyment. 

Food and Wine Pairing Etiquette

Pairing food and wine is as much art as science. While rigid rules (“red wine with red meat, white with fish”) offer a starting point, successful matches hinge on balancing flavors, textures, and intensity.

• Light dishes—salads, shellfish, fresh goat cheese—complement crisp, high‑acid wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or unoaked Chardonnay. The brightness of the wine mirrors the vibrancy of the food, enlivening each bite.
• Rich, creamy sauces—pasta Alfredo, decadent risottos—benefit from the gentle oak and subtle creaminess of barrel‑aged whites, like a modestly priced California Chardonnay. The slight buttery note echoes the dish’s texture.
• Spicy cuisines—Thai curry, Szechuan stir‑fries—pair well with off‑dry Rieslings or rosés, whose touch of residual sweetness calms heat while preserving freshness.
• Red meats and hearty fare—roasted lamb, beef bourguignon, grilled portobellos—are natural allies of medium‑to‑full‑bodied reds. Merlot’s plush fruit, Malbec’s dark‐fruited depth, or a young Rioja with restrained tannin can elevate these dishes.

When in doubt, request pairing guidance from your server. They’re intimately familiar with both the kitchen’s specialties and the wine list. A simple “What would you recommend with the pan‑seared trout?” often leads to a perfect marriage of flavor.

Navigating Special Situations

Ordering for Large Groups

Coordinating wine for a table of six or more demands extra care. You may choose to split the selection: perhaps two whites for the first courses and two reds for entrées. Encourage each subgroup to taste a sample before committing to full pours. If everyone agrees, proceed with multiple bottles; if opinions diverge, consider offering half bottles or by‑the‑glass alternatives.

Ordering by the Bottle Without a Menu

In high‑end establishments, a sommelier may present an impressive cabinet of off‑menu selections. When handed an open wine list bound in leather or shown an array of dusty bottles, trust your advisor. Offer broad parameters—budget, style, food pairing—and let them surprise you. You’ll be tasting rarities or library‑release bottlings unavailable elsewhere.

Ordering Online or for Delivery

Metro Wines offers convenient in‑store pickup and local delivery. When browsing our online catalog, apply the same principles: read descriptions carefully, note vintage and producer reputation, and lean on our filtering tools (price range, varietal, region). If you’re placing a delivery order for a dinner party, specify any special instructions—“please leave in the cooler” or “call upon arrival”—to ensure your wine arrives in perfect condition.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned wine drinkers can slip up. By anticipating these missteps, you’ll sidestep embarrassment and savor every drop:

1. Rushing the Tasting
   Don’t merely sip and swallow. Take a moment to assess aroma, mid‑palate balance, and finish. A rushed nod can lead to discovering an off bottle halfway through the meal.
2. Ignoring Cork Presentation
   When a cork is presented, inspect it briefly. If it looks moist and in good condition, proceed. If it’s dried out or crumbly, politely ask for an alternative bottle—this often indicates improper storage.
3. Overlooking Temperature
   Wine temperature significantly influences perception. Whites should be chilled (45–55°F), but not ice‑cold—excessive coldness masks delicate aromatics. Reds benefit from a slight chill (60–65°F), especially in warmer climates. If your wine arrives too warm or too cold, request a quick adjustment—many restaurants own temperature‑controlled wine fridges for this purpose.
4. Forgetting to Share Context
   Never assume your server knows your budget or occasion. By providing context—“I’d like something under $40 to enjoy with grilled salmon”—you streamline the recommendation process and ensure satisfaction.
5. Fearing the Sommelier
   Sommeliers and servers are your allies, not arbiters of taste. Approach them with respect and openness. They relish sharing hidden gems and building rapport with inquisitive guests.

Bringing It All Home with Metro Wines

Ordering wine is a delightful ritual that bridges culture, cuisine, and conversation. Whether you’re seated at a candlelit table or perusing the racks at Metro Wines, a little etiquette goes a long way. By reading lists with purpose, engaging knowledgeable staff, tasting conscientiously, and pairing thoughtfully, you transform each glass into an experience worthy of remembrance.

At Metro Wines, our mission is to demystify the world of wine, making it approachable, affordable, and endlessly fascinating. We invite you to visit our Asheville shop—just steps from New Belgium Brewing—to apply these etiquette tips in a friendly, supportive environment. Explore our carefully curated shelves, attend one of our popular tasting events, or book a personalized consultation. Let us guide you in selecting wines that resonate with your palate, occasion, and budget.

Our Wine Please! membership club makes ordering wine easy!

Next Steps for Wine Enthusiasts

• Stop by for a Tasting: Join our weekly in‑store tastings to put these etiquette pointers into practice in a relaxed setting with fellow wine lovers.
• Schedule a One‑on‑One Consultation: Need tailored recommendations? Contact us through our website contact form to arrange a personal shopping session.
• Browse Online: Explore our full catalog of red, white, sparkling, and fortified wines at Metro Wines Online and enjoy convenient local delivery.

Wine ordering etiquette isn’t about rigidity—it’s about respect for the wine, the people who produce it, and the enjoyment it brings to our lives. Armed with these insights, you’ll approach every wine list with curiosity and confidence, making selections that delight your senses and spark meaningful conversation. Contact us to test your new wine etiquette knowledge! 

Every bottle of wine has a story—a narrative of craftsmanship, science, and time. One of the most intriguing chapters in this story is aging. But why does aging improve wine? The answer lies in the intricate interplay of fermentation, chemical reactions, and the influence of oak barrels. In this post, we explore the science and art behind wine aging, focusing on the fermentation process and the role oak barrels play in shaping a wine’s character.

In the heart of Asheville, on the way to the Grove Park Inn at 169 Charlotte Street, sits a wine shop that has redefined what personalized service means in the world of wine retail. Metro Wines, founded by John Kerr and Gina Trippi in April 2013, has become a cornerstone of the Asheville wine scene – voted the number one wine shop in Asheville for seven consecutive years, quoted in The Wall Street Journal five times, and featured in Wine Enthusiast magazine.

But what sets Metro Wines apart isn't just our accolades or our extensive selection – it's our commitment to creating a wine shopping experience that feels both educational and personal.

Dry farming wine is an ancient agricultural practice that has been gaining traction in recent years for its sustainability, resilience, and ability to produce unique wines. As water scarcity becomes an increasing concern in many wine-producing regions, more winemakers are adopting dry farming techniques. 

But what exactly is dry farming, and how does it affect the characteristics of the wine you enjoy? In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the world of dry farming, exploring its methods, benefits, challenges, and how it influences the wines that ultimately end up in your glass.