More: “Dry” Gwen’s lessons learned | SoBe wine highlights | Festival scores a touchdown

Dry did a pretty great job of outlining what she learned at the SOBE Wine and Food Festival. I only attended one seminar but wanted to share the lessons I learned.

The more wines you try, the more you learn what you like
There are so many elements that go into a wine. Part of being able to choose a wine for dinner comes down to really knowing what you like and what’s important to you.

It was during the Wine Spectator Seminar B while trying a collection of Old World and New World Pinots this really hit home. I learned that pinots are about texture, not flavor, and I couldn’t help but personally miss the flavor. I realized that I was fine with a big, old chunky mouth feel as long as I had firm tannins and great flavor. Texture simply isn’t as important to me. Even though we were trying some exceptional pinots, including the Alex Gambal Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru of 2007, I knew in my heart I was counting the minutes until cabernet sauvignon time.

Cristal in any form is pretty darn spectacular
Yes, starting the day with seven vintages of Louis Roederer Cristal is a perfectly wonderful way to start the day. And while I definitely enjoyed some years more than others (can I get a shout out to 1995?) they all expressed exceptional quality and mouth-watering delicacy. And this is from a girl who’s not too big into champagne. Just say Roederer. Sigh.

Come prepared
I got insanely jealous when the couple sitting next to me pulled out cheese and truffles for the Beaulieu Vineyards Georges de Latour private reserve cabernet sauvignon tasting at the Wine Spectator Seminar B. How I wanted to be their friend. Or steal their cheese.

Ferreting aside, coming with an open, relaxed mind, a full stomach and a drinking plan were key to learning into the third hour, not just swirling and drinking. My seminar was intense and long.

I did not swallow one mouthful of vino but discreetly spat and was thankful I did. We tried 21 wines in 3 hours and had I swallowed each wine, not only would I have made frequent trips to the ladies room, but I would have been more than a bit drunk. Not how you want to be seen around consummate wine professionals. Nasty as it may or may not be, spitting keeps you sober and keeps you learning. Believe me, there is a time and a place for drinking, swirling and spitting. Pick your battles wisely, friends.