The world of wine tasting can seem intimidating, like a secret society with its own language and rituals. But fear not, fellow wine lover! With a few simple wine tasting do’s and don’ts, you’ll be swirling, sniffing, and savoring like a pro in no time.
Salut! Let’s raise a glass – and keep it upright, that’s a do! – as we begin a tasteful educational voyage through wine. Your wine-tasting cheat sheet. Here goes:
Do: Embrace the Experience
It’s about taking time, relaxing and tasting in moment; forgetting the pressure and letting yourself enjoy the flavors and aromas that each wine offers. Come with no preconceived ideas or thoughts; just a sense of curiosity – and the more you taste, the more you will learn what you like!
Don’t: Be Afraid to Ask Questions
There are no stupid questions… This is one of those silly sayings we try to avoid, but there is no better way to convey this point about wine. The sommelier and other tasters at your table are there to help you learn. Don’t be afraid to ask what kind of grape went into the wine, what kind of wine-making process was used, or anything else about the wine that occurs to you. The more you know, the more you will experience.
Do: Start with the Swirl
Before you take a sip, turn the glass and swirl the wine around for a bit. This helps to aerate the wine, releasing its hidden aromas. Make sure you’re holding the stem of your glass, not the bowl, so that you’re not changing the temperature of the wine.
Don’t: Forget the Nose Knows!
Smell is not the most important sense when it comes to tasting, but it’s still an important one. So stick your nose in after swirling and take a good sniff. What aromas do you find? Are there citrus fruits or stone fruits? Do you get hints of flowers, or spices, or earthiness? Identifying aromas will give you clues to flavor.
Do: Take Small Sips and Savor
Here is the fun part – the tasting! Take a small sip and hold it in your mouth for several seconds. Swish it around on your palate, cover the entire structure of your mouth, swishing from left to right. What are the flavors? Sweet? Tart? Fruity at all? How are the tannins?
Don’t: Chug or Gulp
Wine tasting is about savoring the experience, not downing the drink. Take small sips and pay attention to the different sensations in your mouth. Let the flavors develop before swallowing.
Do: Consider the Food Pairings
The Food can really open up your experience of the wine: When visiting a wine tasting, try the suggested foods to accompany the wines. This can unlock hidden depths in the wine and make for a great experience. All of the wines at Scott Harvey Wines are food friendly so ask about suggested pairings so as to enhance your tasting experience.
Don’t: Be Afraid to Spit
Some folks are more comfortable swallowing the wine but, frankly, it makes no difference. If you plan to taste more than one wine, a quick stop at the spittoon is totally acceptable, and actually recommended so you can sample more wines without getting smashed. Spittoons will be readily available in a tasting room.
Do: Trust Your Palate
Ultimately, the most important wine tasting do is to trust your palate. The only thing that really matters is whether you like the wine, or not! Don’t even worry about what others like or dislike, for your love of wine really matters most to just one person: yourself.
Don’t: Be Intimidated by Others
Finally, remember that everyone is tasting on their own journey. Never be embarrassed by a seasoned taster or someone spouting terms at you; rather, focus on tasting and, above all, have fun.
Bonus Do: Have Fun!
Wine tasting should be a fun and social experience. Relax, chat with fellow tasters, and enjoy the delicious journey of discovery. After all, the best way to learn about wine is to simply sip and savor!
So, there you have it! With these simple wine tasting do’s and don’ts, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident and curious wine explorer. Now, grab a glass, gather some friends, and embark on your own delicious adventure in the world of wine!
Pro Tip: Visit Scott Harvey Wines for a guided tasting experience. Our knowledgeable staff will walk you through the do’s and don’ts of wine tasting while showcasing the exceptional wines of Amador County. Cheers!
