Let us start from defining what this is and why this is important especially to all wine lovers .
Wine tasting is the sensory examination and evaluation of wine. While the practice of wine tasting is as ancient as its production, a more formalized methodology has slowly become established with more and more events like this being done. Modern, professional wine tasters (such as sommeliers or buyers for retailers) use a constantly evolving specialized terminology which is used to describe the range of perceived flavors, aromas and general characteristics of a wine. More informal, recreational tasting may use similar terminology, usually involving a much less analytical process for a more general, personal appreciation.
You need all your senses to taste wines perfectly , especially the sight, the smell and the taste. Watch the color of the wine, smell and taste it are the three steps of tasting.
Wine Tasting Preparation
Aside from setting a reservation, you should consider a number of tips prior to driving to a tasting. Always wear comfortable but respectful clothing for tours and visits. Wineries are considered classy environments, so dressing as if you’re going to an elegant dinner is a good call.
You should consider weather-appropriate clothing for each tasting occasion as well. Research the winery beforehand to better understand if you’ll be indoors or outdoors, then dress accordingly. Additionally, never arrive to a wine tasting on an empty stomach. You want to remember your favorite wines throughout the visit, so arrive to the winery after eating a full meal if you decide not to spit or dump between glasses.
First-Time Wine Tasting Tips
For your first tasting, remember that these visits are supposed to be fun! Make an effort to try new types of wine that you’ve never had before. It’s perfectly normal to ask your server questions if you’re unfamiliar with a particular wine.
Remember to take notes and record what you like and don’t like throughout a wine tasting. Wineries almost always have bottles available for purchase, so this is your chance to order something you like for when you return home.
Wine Tasting Technique and Etiquette
Always hold your wine glass by the stem during a tasting. Holding the bowl of the glass clouds the outer surface and can alter the ideal sampling temperature of the wine. You want to be observant with each glass of wine, and being able to see the color of each serving is a part of the experience.
If you plan on attending multiple wineries in one day, you need to plan ahead. Depending on the winery, it’s perfectly acceptable to spit or dump samples even if you enjoy them. Making use of tasting buckets will help you monitor your consumption and get the most out of your visit. Always be sure to drink responsibly.
The nose is essential to experiencing the flavour of wine
Put your nose right inside your glass wine. Inhale, take in the aromas, then breathe fresh air and start again. You should notice a whole range of aromas: subtle, powerful, fresh, appealing – or unpleasant, if the cork has affected the wine.
The aromas you perceive may evoke flowers, a fruit dessert, warm brioche, pouch tobacco, cooking spices, freshly picked mushrooms – or any other flavour that links spontaneously to your own memories of people, places or emotions.
