Starting a wine collection can be a daunting task. But with a bit of thought and careful planning, it needn’t be that difficult. There are a few pointers to keep in mind before you start:

1. Choose a selection of easy-drinking wines – both red and white – that aren’t too serious or heavy on the pocket. Go for the sort of wine you would drink by the glass with dinner.

2. Be sure to select some middle-of-the-range labels, the kind of wine you’d take to a dinner party

3. Make an investment. There are so many excellent wines that have just been released, which will only improve with time. Make sure you buy good wine now to drink later (in a few years time). And don’t limit yourself to reds. There are many white wines that will also get better over time. Not only do these wines improve in flavour, but they also become more valuable.

4. Don’t forget the bubbles! Spontaneous celebrations often crop up and it’s good to be prepared and have a selection of great sparkling wines and Champagne on hand. You can pull out some bubbly to match the occasion, depending on the magnitude of the celebration. Getting started Just like with food, everyone’s tastes differ when it comes to wine. It’s a good idea to go on a wine-tasting tour to establish what your likes and dislikes are.

ALSO WATCH: Sommelier Moses Magwaza joins the panel of judges for this year’s Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards