Wine tasting allows you to savor its nuances and complexities, and there are a few things you can do to help you better appreciate what you have to sample. Whether you are a novice or looking to refine your palate, this beginner’s guide to wine tasting will guide you through the experience.
- Observation. Begin by observing the wine’s appearance. Hold the glass by the stem and examine the wine’s color, clarity, and viscosity. This can give you clues about its age and grape variety.
- Swirl the Wine. Swirl the wine in your glass to coat the sides of the glass and release its aroma. You may see legs or tears, which indicate alcohol content and body.
- Nose the Wine. Place your nose at the opening of the glass and smell the aromas. Is it fruity, floral, earthy, or oaky? This step is crucial in assessing a wine’s complexity.
- Taste in Sips. Take a sip of the wine, allowing it to coat your palate. What is the texture, acidity, and sweetness? Swish it in your mouth to bring out more flavors.
- Identify Flavors. Try to identify the primary flavors in the wine. Do you taste fruit, like berries or citrus? Are there secondary flavors that emerge as you sip, like spices or vanilla?
- Assess Balance. Evaluate the balance of the wine. Is it well-balanced with acidity, sweetness, and tannins (for red wines)? A balanced wine is often a mark of quality.
- Finish. Pay attention to the wine’s finish, which is the taste that lingers after you swallow. A long finish can indicate complexity and depth.
Wine tasting is about personal preferences, and it is a skill that improves with practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t pick up on a wine’s subtleties on the first try. With time, you’ll become more confident in your ability to savor and appreciate the wonderful world of wine. At Moose & Goose Winery, we offer monthly wine tastings to help you hone your wine expertise; book one today.