How to Taste Wine

Wine tasting is an art that anyone can experience. It is important to take your time and enjoy the experience. When you are tasting wine you do not have to drink the entire glass that is poured. Drinking every glass you are poured will inhibet you from being able to enjoy the many wines that are out there. You can enrich your satisfaction with these easy and entertaining steps.

Seeing the Wine

Look at the wine in a glass. Pay attention to color (Is it red? Or more maroon?) and clarity. Tilt the glass and swirl. Is it clear or cloudy? Any sediment or bits of floating cork? (If there are sediments or bits floating then politley ask for a new glass). Sediments in you glass indicate age.

Smelling the Wine

Smell the wine. Gently swirl the glass to release the bouquet. Stick your nose into the glass and inhale. Notice the complex aromas. Is it floral? Fruity? Oaky? Smelling the wine allow your senses to fully appreciate the flavor of the wine. A pleasing bouquet is a wonderful indication of a good wine.

Tasting the Wine

Take a small sip and roll it around on your tongue, then take a quick breath and mix the wine with air. Did the flavors open up? Reds often have an oaky or berry flavor. Whites are more likely fruity or floral. Swallow. How does the wine finish? Does the flavor linger or pass quickly? Consider the texture--is it light-bodied like water, or full-bodied like milk. Your evaluation of the wine depends on your personal taste, but this technique gives you the best overall reflection of the wine’s elements. These steps only add to the experience. The key is to stay open minded, if you are typically only a white wine drinker, take a chance on a red. Remember to take your time enjoying the wine.

*Photo courtesy of Texas Department of Agriculture