Basics of Wine Tasting

Learning about wine can seem so daunting, but it truly doesn't have to be.  Admittedly there area so many different styles of wine, from an inordinate number of regions, all of which label their bottles differently.  And then there is the investment in ordering a glass of wine or buy a bottle.  How do you know the difference between an $8 bottle versus a $200 bottle and is spending  your paycheck on a bottle truly worth it? 

We want to take a bit of the fear and anxiety out of wine drinking and shopping for you, so you can actually enjoy the wine.  That is what it is all about after all- enjoying a nice glass after a long day or on a Friday evening out with friends. 

To start getting more familiar with different wines and to refine your likes, grab some friends and plan a wine tasting event, or join one of our monthly classes where you will taste through a style, varietal or region and discuss in a fun stress-free environment.

Take small steps to get yourself familiar.  The next time you open a bottle at home take use this guide to start your journey and write down notes for yourself- its always difficult to remember the finer points of a good glass after you have moved on to the next.

Basic Guide to Wine Tasting

Look

color and hue
clarity and opacity
intensity
viscosity

Smell

primary aromas
secondary aromas
tertiary aromas
wine health or flaws

Taste

sweetness
acidity
tannin
alcohol
body

Conclusion

balance
maturity
quality
value
memorable features