(NYDailyNews) - I don't believe I am a wine snob. Why? For one, my bank account. I can't afford to be a snob. I, like most consumers, are most comfortable in that $15 to $25 price range.

The second reason is that my knowledge of wine stems from my love for wine and is, like more wine writers than you might be aware of, primarily self-taught. Self-taught as in wine books I've read, formal and informal tastings and classes I've attended.

And I listen…really listen. Not just to the professionals, but to friends and family who love wine and to other people purchasing wine. And lastly, I never tell someone their palate of wine preferences are "wrong."

But recently I found out that my wine knowledge, however it may pale to a sommelier, still prejudices me to some wines. I find if I'm not familiar with a wine in a restaurant, bar, or store I'll ask, "Where is it from?" I'll expect a good Sauvignon Blanc to be from New Zealand, a good Pinot Grigio, Italy; Malbec, Argentina; Cabernet Sauvignon, California, and so on.