How to Taste Wine Like a Sommelier

Tasting wine isn’t just about sipping and nodding—it’s an art. Mastering the sommelier approach will elevate your appreciation of wine, helping you discern its depth, complexity, and character. Whether you're a casual drinker or an aspiring connoisseur, this guide will teach you how to taste wine like a professional.

1. Set the Stage for Tasting

 

A proper environment enhances your ability to evaluate wine. Follow these key steps:

  • Use the Right Glass: A well-designed wine glass allows aromas to develop and enhances flavors.

  • Pick a Neutral Setting: Avoid strong scents like perfume, food, or candles, which can interfere with your senses.

  • Ensure Proper Lighting: Natural light is best for assessing color and clarity.

  • Taste at the Right Temperature: White wines should be chilled, while reds should be slightly below room temperature.

2. Observe the Wine

 

Before you take a sip, study the wine’s appearance:

  • Color & Hue: Hold your glass against a white background. Reds range from purple to garnet, while whites vary from pale straw to deep gold.

  • Clarity: A cloudy wine may indicate faults, while a clear, brilliant hue suggests good quality.

  • Viscosity (Legs or Tears): Swirl the wine and watch how it clings to the glass. More ‘legs’ often mean higher alcohol content or sugar levels.

3. Smell the Aromas

 

Aromatics are key to understanding wine:

  1. Swirl the Glass: This releases aromatic compounds.

  2. Take a Gentle Sniff: Inhale deeply and try to identify scents.

  3. Break it Down:

    • Primary Aromas: Fruity, floral, or herbal notes from the grape variety.

    • Secondary Aromas: Yeasty or nutty characteristics from fermentation.

    • Tertiary Aromas: Aged scents like tobacco, leather, or dried fruit from oak or bottle aging.

4. Taste & Analyze

 

Now for the best part—tasting:

  • Take a Small Sip: Let the wine coat your palate.

  • Assess Flavor Profile: Identify fruit, spice, earth, or oak characteristics.

  • Structure Matters: Focus on:

    • Acidity: The zing that makes your mouth water.

    • Tannins: The drying sensation, more present in red wines.

    • Sweetness: From bone dry to dessert-like.

    • Alcohol: A warming sensation if high in content.

    • Finish: The aftertaste—great wines linger longer.

5. Pair & Enjoy

 

Great wine deserves great pairings:

  • Whites: Try Sauvignon Blanc with seafood or Chardonnay with creamy dishes.

  • Reds: Pinot Noir pairs with poultry, while Cabernet Sauvignon shines with steak.

  • Sweet Wines: Pair Riesling or Port with desserts or sharp cheeses.


Final Thoughts

 

Tasting wine like a sommelier takes practice. Trust your senses, refine your palate, and most importantly... enjoy the journey!