knowledge base — knowledge

Knowledge Base is a collection of thoughtful and unique stories and tidbits that celebrate wine.

Whether you're just getting started or are a wine aficionado, this is your destination for knowledge. Published by Usual, a lifestyle brand designing and creating thoughtful and delicious wines and beverages, Knowledge Base celebrates indulging yourself with information and a glass of wine, whenever, wherever, and however you want.

Dessert Wine Guide: Dessert Wine Types & Pairings

There is a place and time for dessert wine and it can be more versatile than you might realize. To that end, allow us to give you a little background on dessert wine and how it's different from other types of wines. We'll also provide a handy list of dessert wines along with some tantalizing food pairings.

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Your Complete Guide to Cooking Wine vs. Regular Wine

Wine and food pairing has been practically elevated to an art form. But when you talk about cooking with wine, that's where things get a little fuzzy. In this guide, you'll learn all about cooking wine, including what it is, how it compares to regular drinking wine, and which types of wine to choose for your recipe.

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Best Types of Red Wine: A Guide to Choosing the Best Red Wine Types

From almonds and berry fruits to cherry-like and velvety, there’s a red wine out there for you. Here, we’ll break down the best red wines and help you choose the ones you’ll like most based on your preferences. From velvety Cabernets to punchy Sangiovese wines, we'll help you find the perfect red.

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Fortified Wine: Diving into the Types of Fortified Wines

To satisfy your curiosity and help you develop an even deeper appreciation for wine, this guide will fill you in on everything you need to know about fortified wine, including how it's made and why. You'll also learn about the most popular varieties and the best way to pair them so you can fortify your own wine game.

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What is Biodynamic Wine? Insights into Biodynamic Grapes and Winemaking

In this guide to biodynamic wine, we'll decipher the basics of this esoteric-sounding wine as well as some nitty-gritty details that might make you scratch your head before grabbing a bottle. We'll also compare it to organic wine and natural wine and offer the bottom line on whether this type of wine is better for you — and the planet. 

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How to Open a Wine Bottle (Even If You Don’t Have a Corkscrew)

Popping a cork takes a lot more skill than twisting off a beer bottle cap. To prevent potential mishaps, we’ve created this guide that will take you through the step-by-step process of how to open a wine bottle, with or without a corkscrew.

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Wine Terminology: Wine Terms to Help You Sound Like an Expert

Don't know your Chardonnay from your Champagne? Not sure what mouthfeel really means or what wine legs are all about? Whether you’re a curious novice or seasoned aficionado, this glossary of wine terms will help you better understand and appreciate the wide world of wine.

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What is Viticulture: An Examination of Viniculture Science

While you likely know some basics about wine, you might rarely consider the fascinating intricacies of winemaking. But behind every bottle is a story. Viniculture is the journey from grapes to glass, and it’s far from short and simple — it’s a lengthy process that encompasses both art and science.

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Difference Between Red and White Wine Glasses: Examining Types of Wine Glasses

While you can drink wine out of anything, to fully experience and taste your wine, you may want to invest in a variety of wine glasses. Discover why glassware matters and the different types of wine glasses to use for your next sip.

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How Wine Is Made: Everything You Need to Know About Winemaking

Learn the five essential steps of how wine is made, including how the grapes are harvested, the difference between making red wine and white wine, and why understanding the process will help you appreciate your next bottle of vino.

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Swirl, Sniff, Sip: How to Drink Wine Like an Expert

Navigating the vast world of wine drinking can be daunting for new wine drinkers. But all you really need to drink wine properly is a curiosity and eagerness to try new things. With that in mind, consider this your guide on how to drink wine like a pro.

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Legs of Wine: What are Legs in Wine and Their Significance

Many wine lovers swear that wine legs are a significant feature of wine, but we’re here to burst that bubble. There are certain wine myths that refuse to die, and wine legs is one of them. It's time to put those rumors to rest and get the truth about wine legs.

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