The basics of wine tasting: techniques and mistakes to avoid

Wine tasting is much more than simply drinking; it’s a complete sensory experience involving all your senses. Whether you are a professional or a passionate amateur, the key is knowing how to appreciate a wine to its full value. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the techniques to use and the mistakes to avoid for optimal tasting.

Wine tasting techniques

To fully appreciate a wine, several steps need to be followed, involving visual observation, olfactory analysis, and tasting. Here’s how to proceed:

Visual observation

The first step in tasting is to visually analyze the wine. Fill your glass about one-third full and examine it under proper lighting. Here’s what to observe:

• Color: The color of the wine can reveal much about its age, grape variety, and quality. For example, a young red wine will generally have a bright, vivid color, while an older wine will have more tawny hues.

• Clarity: A good wine should be clear and translucent. Suspended particles may indicate a flaw, though some natural wines might have sediments.

• Viscosity: Swirl the wine in the glass and observe the "legs" that form. The slower they descend, the richer the wine is in alcohol or sugar.

Olfactory analysis

The second step is to smell the wine. This phase is divided into two parts: the first nose and the second nose.

• The first nose: Without swirling the wine, bring your nose close to the glass and take a deep breath. Identify the initial aromas the wine emits.

• The second nose: Gently swirl the wine in the glass to release more aromas and smell again. Try to identify the different families of aromas: fruity, floral, spicy, woody, etc.

Tasting

The final step is the tasting itself. Take a small sip of wine and let it circulate in your mouth. Pay attention to the following elements:

• Attack: This is the first impression you get in your mouth. It can be lively, sweet, acidic, or sugary.

• Mid-palate: This is when the aromas fully develop. Analyze the texture, acidity, tannin (for red wines), and aromatic complexity.

• Finish: This refers to the persistence of flavors after swallowing or spitting out the wine. A long finish is often indicative of a high-quality wine.

Mistakes to avoid

Although wine tasting is an enjoyable activity, certain mistakes can impair the experience. Here are the main mistakes to avoid:

• Not using an appropriate glass: Using an inappropriate glass can hinder the appreciation of the wine’s aromas and flavors. Opt for crystal or fine glass wine glasses, with a shape suited to the type of wine (Bordeaux glasses, Burgundy glasses, etc.).

• Neglecting the serving temperature: The temperature at which a wine is served plays a crucial role in its tasting. A wine that is too warm or too cold loses its aromatic qualities. Generally, red wines are served between 14 and 18°C, white wines between 8 and 12°C, and sparkling wines between 6 and 8°C.

• Ignoring the tasting context: The context of the tasting can affect your perception. Try to taste in a neutral environment without distracting odors (perfume, strong food). Lighting and the time of day can also influence your ability to analyze the wine.

• Not aerating young wines: Young wines, especially reds, can benefit from aeration before tasting. This step allows the aromas to fully develop. Use a decanter or open the bottle an hour before serving.

• Not adapting the glass choice to the type of wine: Each type of wine deserves its own glass to express its full complexity. For example, a red wine glass will have a wider opening to encourage oxygenation, while a white wine glass will be narrower to concentrate the aromas.

Wine tasting suggestions

To illustrate these techniques, here are some wine suggestions that will delight your palate:

• Gantenbein - Pinot Noir 2009
  Origin: Grisons, Switzerland
  Description: This wine offers a deep red color and complex aromas of ripe red fruits and spices. On the palate, it is elegant and balanced, with fine tannins and a beautiful length.

• Nicolas Rossignol - Volnay 1er Cru Santenots 2019
  Origin: Burgundy, France
  Description: Made from 100% Pinot Noir, this wine features notes of ripe red fruits, spices, and licorice. Its elegant structure makes it an excellent pairing for refined dishes.

• Château de Fonsalette - Côtes du Rhône Rouge 2003
  Origin: Rhône, France
  Description: Composed of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, this wine offers rich aromas of ripe red fruits and spices. Its balanced structure and silky tannins make it a quality wine to accompany red meats and aged cheeses.

• Domaine de la Rochette - Jacques Tatasciore Neuchâtel Les Chypres 2017
  Origin: Neuchâtel, Switzerland
  Description: This intense red wine reveals subtle and complex aromas, with a beautiful harmony between delicate tannins and freshness on the finish. Ideal for pairing with red meats and game.

In conclusion

Wine tasting is an enriching experience that requires mastering certain techniques and avoiding common mistakes. By following these tips, you will be able to better appreciate every nuance of your favorite wines. Feel free to explore a wide variety of wines to refine your palate and enhance your wine knowledge.