5 Handy Tips for Tasting Wine like a Pro

3 August 2023

5 Handy Tips for Tasting Wine like a Pro

For over 30 years, we’ve been knee-deep in the wine industry, working as winemakers, wine packaging specialists and (of course) enjoying a sip or two along the way!

Throughout this time, we’ve encountered countless questions about wine: from packaging insights to the art of pouring.

Join us as we demystify wine one sip at a time and answer some of your burning questions.

FAQ 1: How do I better appreciate and understand wine?

Here are five handy tips for tasting wine like a pro:

1. Observe the Wine

Hold the glass against a white background and check its colour and clarity. Reds may range from purple to brick-red, while whites can vary from pale straw to deep gold. Clarity can indicate the wine’s quality and age.

2. Swirl and Smell

Gently swirl the wine in the glass to release its aromas. This aeration allows the wine’s bouquet to open up. After swirling, put your nose close to the glass and take a few short sniffs. Identify the various scents like fruits, spices, flowers or oak.

3. Sip with Attention

Take a small sip and let the wine coat your entire palate. Pay attention to its taste, texture, and complexity. Note the sweetness, acidity, tannins (for red wines) and body. Allow the wine to linger on your palate to appreciate its flavours fully.

4. Consider the Finish

After swallowing or spitting (if you’re tasting multiple wines), notice the finish. The finish is the taste that lingers on your palate after the wine is swallowed. Is it quick, or does it linger?

5. Trust Your Palate

Wine tasting is a personal experience, and everyone’s preferences differ. Trust your own senses and enjoy the process. The more you taste, the better you’ll understand your own palate.

summary

Remember, wine tasting is meant to be fun. Regardless of a wine’s origin or price, our golden rule is, if you like it, drink it. If you don’t, don’t!

It’s that simple!

However, to get better at identifying wines and deciphering what you like, practice makes perfect, so keep exploring different wines and regions to expand your wine knowledge and appreciation.

Have a question? We’ll talk wine all day, contact us or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page here.

Cheers!