If you’re interested in taking your first step into the world of fine wine and wine tastings, the vast amount of information can be overwhelming at first glance. From numerous grape varieties to a plethora of wines and signature house styles, it can be difficult to figure out where you should begin. But worry not—we’re here with a beginner’s guide to wine tasting that will make the experience a breeze. We break down the basics of wine tasting and share key tips on how you can appreciate fine wine like a pro.
Sensory exploration
When it comes to wine tasting, your sense of sight and smell are just as important as your taste buds.
Before you take a sip, observe the colour and clarity of the wine, taking note of subtle variations that indicate factors such as its grape variety and age. For example, red wines tend to lose colour as they age, becoming less vibrant and taking on an orange hue. White wines, on the other hand, intensify in colour, moving from pale yellow or green to darker gold or amber shades.
Next, give your wine a gentle swirl to aerate it and release its aromas before bringing it to your nose to take short, deliberate sniffs. As a beginner, you should start out by trying to identify specific aromas present in the wine, such as fruity, floral or earthy notes.
Engaging all your senses and taking the time to appreciate the appearance and aromas of wine will enrich your overall experience and help you develop a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of wine tasting.
Master tasting techniques
Moving onto the actual tasting of the wine, start by taking a small sip and allowing it to coat your entire palate. Pay attention to the initial flavours of the wine, which may range from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy. As you continue to sip, consider the wine's texture, which is influenced by factors such as body, acidity, sweetness, tannins but also alcohol.
- Body refers to the richness and weight of the wine
- Acidity refers to the tartness of wine
- The sweetness of wine can vary from bone dry to lusciously sweet
- Tannins, found primarily in red wines, add bitterness and astringency, leaving a drying sensation on the palate
- Alcohol refers to the burning sensation on the palate which can be light to intense
Finally, focus on the wine's finish, or aftertaste, which is the impression that it leaves after you’ve swallowed it. Pay attention to the length and intensity of the finish, as well as any additional flavours or sensations that emerge.
Fine wines are famously known for having a certain level of complexity in aromas and textures. A well made fine wine will have a perfect balance of all the above points.
The process of wine tasting may seem complicated, but practice makes perfect. Follow these steps and engage your senses – you'll soon be able to gain a deeper sensitivity towards the elements that make up a bottle of wine.
Understand grape varieties
Utilising your senses is not all. As a beginner, you should also explore the key grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay, and learn how they influence the style, personality and flavour of the wines they produce.
Known for bold flavours of blackcurrant, cassis, and cedar (from oak aging), Cabernet Sauvignon grapes produce full-bodied red wines with firm tannins. Merlot wines, on the other hand, have ripe plum, cherry, and chocolate notes, as well as softer tannins and are medium- to full-bodied. Chardonnay grapes are a versatile variety, producing white wines with underlying notes of apple and citrus.
Familiarise yourself with these grape varieties and you'll be better equipped to identify the distinct characteristics of wines.
Wine and food pairing
If you’re ready to take your wine tasting experience to the next level, you can delve into the world of wine and food pairing. Understanding how different wines interact with various cuisines can enhance the flavours of both the wine and the food for a memorable dining experience.
Start by trying classic combinations like pairing Cabernet Sauvignon with steak, or Chardonnay with seafood. These combinations boast complementary flavours and textures, elevating both the wine and the dish. And if you’re interested in experimenting with unconventional pairings, you can sample spicy Asian cuisine with off-dry Riesling, or pair creamy desserts with sweet late-harvest wines.
Overall, pairing wine with food is a fantastic way for you to engage with wine and refine your tasting abilities. You can even further broaden your horizons by visiting a wine restaurant, where you can delve into a diverse array of cuisines and wines.
To appreciate fine wine, you have to refine your senses to detect the subtle flavours and complexities present in every glass. At Wine Connection, we offer beginners an extensive selection of wines to explore and enjoy, providing ample opportunities for tasting and discovery.
Embark on your wine tasting journey by visiting our online shop today!
