Mastering the 5 S's of Wine Tasting: See, Smell, Sip, Savor, and Spit
See: The Visual Examination
The first step in mastering wine tasting is the visual examination, an essential aspect that provides initial insights into the wine's quality and character. By carefully observing the wine, one can glean valuable information about its age, grape variety, and potential flavor profile, setting the stage for a more informed tasting experience.
Start by holding the glass at a slight angle against a white background. This allows a clear view of the wine’s color and clarity. The color can range from pale yellow to deep amber for whites, and from light ruby to almost black for reds. A wine's hue can indicate its age; for example, white wines tend to darken with age, while red wines can lose color and turn more brick-like.
Clarity is another critical aspect of visual examination. A bright, clear wine typically indicates good quality, whereas a hazy appearance may suggest faults or minimal filtration, which is sometimes intentional in natural wines. Observe the intensity of the color as well; a deep, intense color often signifies higher concentration and extraction, which can correlate with richer flavors.
Next, swirl the wine gently and observe the legs or tears that form on the inside of the glass. The legs are the streaks that run down the glass after swirling, and their thickness and speed can reveal information about the wine's alcohol content and viscosity. Wines with higher alcohol content and sugar levels form slower, thicker legs, indicating a fuller-bodied wine.
By mastering the visual examination, wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs can set a solid foundation for the subsequent steps in the tasting process. This initial assessment not only enhances the overall tasting experience but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of wine.
Smell: The Aroma Assessment
The aroma assessment is a vital component of wine tasting, often providing the first significant impression of a wine's character. The initial step is to swirl the wine gently in the glass, which helps release its aromatic compounds, making it easier to detect the diverse range of scents. By understanding and categorizing these aromas, one can gain a deeper appreciation of the wine's complexity and quality.
Aromas in wine are typically classified into three main groups: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary aromas are directly derived from the grapes and are often described as fruit or floral notes. For instance, a riesling might exhibit fresh green apple and citrus aromas, while a cabernet sauvignon could present more robust black cherry and violet scents.
Secondary aromas develop during the fermentation process, influenced by the yeast and fermentation conditions. These can include notes like bread dough, butter, or even beer-like qualities. For example, many chardonnay wines exhibit buttery or creamy aromas due to malolactic fermentation, a process that transforms malic acid into lactic acid.
Tertiary aromas emerge from the aging process, either in the bottle or in oak barrels. These scents can be complex and varied, including notes such as vanilla, tobacco, leather, or earthy tones. A well-aged Bordeaux might display intricate layers of dried fruit, cedar, and truffle, reflecting its extended maturation period.
Identifying common wine aromas can significantly enhance your tasting experience. Begin by taking a deep inhalation through the nose, noting the immediate scents. Then, take short, quick sniffs to identify more subtle nuances. Familiarizing yourself with typical wine aromas through practice and reference materials can be extremely beneficial. The olfactory perception of these aromas not only adds to the enjoyment of wine but also provides clues about its grape variety, region of origin, and production methods.
Overall, mastering the aroma assessment allows you to appreciate the intricate bouquet of wine, enriching your tasting experience and deepening your understanding of this nuanced beverage.
Sip
Taking a proper sip of wine is an art form that requires intentionality and mindfulness. When you first bring the glass to your lips, take a small amount of wine into your mouth. Allow the wine to coat your entire palate, ensuring that it touches all parts of your tongue. This technique helps in capturing the full spectrum of flavors and textures. Swish the wine gently, similar to how you might with mouthwash, but with much more finesse. This action releases the wine's aromatic compounds, enhancing the tasting experience.
Savor
Once you have taken a sip and allowed the wine to coat your palate, the next step is to savor it. Allow the wine to linger in your mouth for a few moments. During this time, focus on the different flavor notes, textures, and the balance of acidity, sweetness, tannins, and alcohol. Notice the complexity of the wine and how the flavors evolve. Is there a fruity aftertaste? Do you detect any oak or spice? Savoring the wine helps you to appreciate its nuances fully and to understand its character better.
Spit
While spitting may seem counterintuitive to enjoying wine, it is a crucial part of professional wine tasting. Spitting allows you to sample multiple wines without becoming intoxicated or overwhelming your palate. After savoring the wine and noting its characteristics, discreetly spit it into a designated container. This practice ensures that you can maintain your focus and sensitivity to the flavors and aromas of subsequent wines. Additionally, cleansing your palate between wines with water or plain crackers can further enhance the tasting experience by preventing flavor carryover.
Cheers !!!
