(Forbes) - Let me start with three assertions about drinking wine now, versus saving it for later.

Number One: The vast majority of wine that’s purchased in the U.S. is consumed within 24 hours of purchase.

Number Two: In an effort to capture that substantial audience, some winemakers I’ve interviewed adjust their techniques and stylistic decisions in order to make a wine that’s drinkable sooner rather than later (twelve hours from now rather than twelve years, say).

Number Three: The tradition of investing in wine — by buying futures at en primeur tastings, for example, or by purchasing older vintages as formal auction lots — remains an appealing strategy to diversify an investment portfolio.

That third assertion may seem counter-intuitive, especially in light of the first two. But it reminds me of a fundamental lesson of journalism: while everyone else zigs (and buys the ready-to-drink-now wines), you’ll want to zag (because that’s where the unique angle or “find” is).

The truth is that many wines just aren’t meant to be aged or “invested in” for the long-term. But for those that are, it’s helpful to know the unique angle or “find” that you’re looking for.