Whether you’re new to wine or a casual wine sipper, chances are you’ve heard a few “rules” about wine. The wine world is full of traditions and stories, but not all of them are facts. Let’s bust some common myths so you can drink what you love, the way you want.
1. Expensive Wine = Better Wine
When you’re trying to choose the perfect wine for a special occasion, picking the most expensive bottle might seem like a safe choice. But the truth is, price doesn’t always reflect quality. A wine’s price often comes from branding, scarcity, and import costs. There are plenty of affordable wines—especially local ones—that don’t carry the extra shipping or tax premiums. For example, if you’re in Bali, you should try Hatten Wines, which are grown and made locally. They’re fresh, unique, and affordable. If you enjoy the bottle, then it’s a good wine no matter the price.
2. Red Wine with Meat, White Wine with Fish
This classic pairing rule is a decent starting point, but it’s far from law. The real key is matching the intensity of the wine with the dish. Think about the preparation, spices, and sauces rather than just the protein.
A spicy fish curry might shine with a light red like Aga Red by Hatten Wines, while roasted chicken in garlic sauce could pair beautifully with Two Islands Chardonnay.
3. Older Wine is Always Better
“Aging like fine wine” may be a popular phrase, but not all wine gets better with age. In fact, most wines are meant to be enjoyed within 1–3 years of bottling. Only specific varieties improve with age and only under the right storage conditions. At the end of the day, flavor preferences, texture, and personal taste play a bigger role than a wine’s age.
4. All Rosé Wines Are Sweet
The pink shade of rosé might look sweet, but the taste often isn’t. This myth likely stems from the early mass-produced rosés that were sweet and gave the category a sugary reputation. In reality, most rosés are dry, meaning they have little to no residual sugar. Rosé wines can range from bone dry to syrupy sweet. it all depends on the style and where it’s made.
5. Higher Alcohol Means Higher Quality
More alcohol doesn’t mean better wine—it simply reflects how ripe the grapes were or the style the winemaker aimed for. These days, many wine lovers are leaning toward lighter-bodied, lower-alcohol options that are easier to sip and more social.
Wines like Dragonfly Wines offer a refreshing, lower-alcohol experience perfect for warm days, beach dinners, or just a mindful glass in good company.
Forget the myths. Wine should be fun.
Whether you’re sipping Balinese wine by the sea, sharing a bottle of Two Islands Shiraz at dinner, or discovering something new from Dragonfly Wines, it’s all about what you enjoy.
So go ahead—break a few rules. Pour what you love, pair it how you like, and toast to the freedom of drinking wine your way.