Tasting a glass of wine is a delightful experience that involves observing, smelling, and tasting the wine. Here’s how to properly taste wine:
1. Observe
Ensure the wine is clear and free from any sediment or particles. A slight cork residue is harmless, but inspect for significant sediment. When holding the glass, do so in white light or against a white background, like a tablecloth or napkin. Pay attention to the color and clarity of the wine. White wines can range from pale yellow to amber-gold, while red wines can exhibit various shades from deep purple to brick-red. The intensity of the color can sometimes be an indicator of the wine’s body.
2. Smell
Swirl the wine gently in the glass to release its aromas. You can swirl it in the air or place the glass on the table and rotate it to prevent spills. After swirling for a few seconds, bring the glass up to your nose and inhale deeply. Recognize common scents such as floral and citrus notes in white wines, and berry, nut, and spice aromas in red wines.
3. Taste
Take a sip of the wine and let it linger in your mouth for a moment.
Slowly inhale through your mouth, almost as if you’re using a straw. This action helps to release more flavors. Describe the tastes you perceive. You might notice some of the same flavors you detected while smelling the wine. Additionally, you can discern primary tastes like sweetness, acidity, bitterness, and saltiness.
4. Mouthfeel
The “weight” or “body” of the wine can be described as light, medium, or full. For instance, Pinot Grigio is considered light-bodied, while Cabernet Sauvignon is typically medium to full-bodied. Focus on how the wine feels in your mouth. Pinot Grigio may feel light and crisp, while a fuller-bodied wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon might have a “rounder” mouthfeel. Properly tasting wine is not only an enjoyable experience but also a valuable skill for understanding and appreciating the complexity of different wines.
Finally, the storage environment of red wine can significantly impact its quality and taste. If conditions permit, it is advisable to custom wine cellars for storing red wine. The wine right place on the traditional or modern wine cabinet, which is call constant temperature control wine cooler, will have better flavor for long term storage.