National Drink Wine Day – February 18th, 2024

February is one of the best months for beverage celebrations. While there are a number of days dedicated to mixed cocktails that occur in February, my favorite beverage celebration day is National Drink Wine Day. This celebratory day occurs on February 18th of every year. If you love wine, whether it be white or red, dry or sweet, flat or bubbly, this is your day to celebrate.

In this article, I will be examining the history of National Drink Wine Day, how to best celebrate it, and give my personal beverage suggestions.

History of National Drink Wine Day

Wine is one of the oldest beverages consumed by man. For thousands of years, we have been fermenting grapes into a mildly alcoholic beverage that is now called wine. While there is no certain inventor of wine, it is clearly a beverage that has stood the test of time.

Wine production has been a constant with cultures throughout the ancient world. There is documentation and evidence of winemaking in China, Greece, and the Middle East going back at least 4,000 years. The oldest known winery is located in Armenia and barrels of wine have even been found in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs.

Many of these cultures used wine as an alternative to water, which without modern treatment techniques, was not safe to drink. Wine, though it uses water in the process, becomes “antiseptic” during the fermentation process as alcohol is produced. Ancient peoples knew that drinking wine was safer than drinking water from streams or other bodies of water.

Each culture may have used slightly different processes for fermenting their grapes and water, but over time, the way wine is made has changed little. The basic process involves harvesting grapes which are then crushed and pressed to release their juices. The grape juice is then exposed to yeast either naturally or intentionally, to start the fermentation process. When fermentation is complete, the wine is placed in barrels and allowed to age.

The flavor of your favorite wine comes from a few different factors. First, is the type of grape. There are numerous wine-grape varieties that are grown. They are unique in their color, flavor, and sugar content.

When these varieties of grapes are grown in different regions or countries, their flavor changes based on climate, altitude, soil conditions, and even annual weather conditions. Many people are surprised to learn that their favorite wine, from their favorite winery, can taste completely different from vintage to vintage, simply because of the weather from that year.

The final factor that will influence the flavor of your wine is the barrel that it is aged in. French wines that are aged in French oak have a distinct flavor. American oak on the other hand offers another flavor profile altogether. A new fad is to age wines in barrels that were used for bourbon, sherry, or whiskey.

National Drink Wine Day is an ideal time to step out of your normal and try a different type of wine. Many liquor stores, wineries, and bars will help you celebrate National Drink Wine Day by offering drink specials, promoting reduced prices on special wines, and even selling a unique wine that will only be available for this occasion.

Celebrating National Drink Wine Day in 2024

On February 18th the best way to celebrate National Drink Wine Day is to break out your favorite bottle of wine or try a new wine style that you may not have previously enjoyed. You are likely to find specials on wines at restaurants, liquor stores, and even online wine retailers on National Drink Wine Day.

Some of my favorite wine retailers offer great discounts on unique wines or even everyday favorites for National Drink Wine Day.

Firstleaf Wine Box

For National Drink Wine Day, Firstleaf Wine Box offers you a great discount on six-packs of wine. Select wines are under $4 each if you purchase six. Their typical price for six bottles averages about $80. For National Drink Wine Day you can get the same six bottles for $24.

Total Wine

This national liquor store chain will give you a great discount on wine for National Drink Wine Day. In 2023 they offer a 10% discount if you buy 6 bottles of wine. And if you spend at least $20 they will deliver your wine to your home for free.

Wine.com

This is one of my favorite online wine retailers. Wine.com offers great deals on wine all year round, but on National Drink Wine Day they have specials on wines that you may not find elsewhere. Their promotions vary, but check out their bulk wine ordering deals, daily discounts, and even discounts for just ordering at least $100.

How to Celebrate National Drink Wine Day

It is pretty easy to celebrate National Drink Wine Day. You simply need to find a bottle of wine to enjoy. This can mean finding a new wine style or enjoying a favorite. If you are looking for other ways to enjoy National Drink Wine Day, I offer you some additional options.

Explore a Wine Tasting

Wine is produced in just about every state in the US. So, that means there is a good chance you can find a local winery that offers wine tastings, near your home. Visiting a winery on National Drink Wine Day and tasting different wines is a great way to try new wine styles and support a local business.

Discover Food Pairings.

Food and wine pairings are a great way to experience new wines. On National Drink Wine Day, many restaurants will offer a limited menu that features select foods and wines that work well with that dish. This is a great way to try new wines or new wine styles that you’ve not had before.

Take a Winery Tour

Though not unique to National Drink Wine Day, this is a great way to celebrate. Many wineries have daily tours of their cellars and vineyards. Take a tour and then stay for a wine tasting.

Outing to a Wine Bar

If you don’t have a winery near your home, you may want to make a visit to a wine bar. These bars focus their beverage options on wine. They often have tasting flights and by-the-glass specials on National Drink Wine Day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is National Drink Wine Day?

National Drink Wine Day, celebrated on February 18th, is a celebratory day dedicated to wine. This day is celebrated in the United States and is the perfect day to try new wines, experiment with wine and food pairings, or head to your local winery for a tour and wine tasting.

What is the Difference Between Syrah and Shiraz?

Many people are boggled by the wine styles Syrah and Shiraz. While they seem to be different, the surprising thing about these wines is they are actually the same. Syrah and Shiraz are made from the same grape. The only difference is that Syrahs come from France and Shiraz comes from Australia.

Final Thoughts

National Wine Day is a great time to enjoy a glass of wine. Whether you decide to experience a new wine style or a local winery, or you’re happy with a bottle of your personal favorite, February 18th is the ideal day to celebrate.