In the vast and seductive universe of wines, the art of tasting is a fascinating journey that allows us to enjoy and understand each bottle of wine. For wine aficionados and newcomers alike, mastering the wine tasting method is essential to truly appreciate the complexity and beauty of this centuries-old drink. This guide will take you through the fundamental steps of wine tasting, transforming each tasting into a rich and educational experience.
1st Step: Look
The first step in tasting a wine is to observe it. Before you even smell it, your eyes can reveal a lot about its character and quality.
Hue and Intensity
Start by identifying the predominant color of the wine, using a color chart as a reference. The shade can indicate the age and type of wine: reds tend to lose color with age, while whites gain intensity.
Tears or Legs
As you swirl the wine in the glass, notice the "tears" that form on the walls. This phenomenon, known as the Gibbs-Marangoni Effect, reveals the presence of alcohol. More tears suggest a higher alcohol content.
2nd Step: Smell
Complex aromas hide in each wine, waiting to be discovered. By smelling the wine, we get closer to the essence of its identity.
Intensity
Gently bring the glass closer to your nose and breathe. Wines with high aromaticity will be immediately recognizable. Adjust the cup distance to isolate specific aromas.
Fruit
Try to identify three fruit aromas, judging whether they are fresh, ripe or dried. This is an excellent way to start deciphering the aromatic profile of the wine.
Herbs and Others
In addition to fruits, look for notes of herbs, flowers, minerals, and others. The diversity of aromas contributes to the complexity of the wine, offering clues about its terroir and winemaking.
Oak
Aromas of vanilla, coconut, chocolate, among others, indicate maturation in oak barrels, which enrich the wine with different nuances, depending on the origin of the oak.
Earth
Organic and inorganic aromas can point to the wine's geographic origin, adding another layer of complexity to its aromatic profile.
3rd Step: Taste
Tasting reveals the structure and body of the wine, with each sip telling part of its story.
Sweetness
Sweetness is determined by residual sugar, influenced by acidity. Wines with higher acidity tend to appear less sweet.
Tannins
Present mainly in red wines, tannins add structure and texture, ranging from soft to robust.
Acidity
Acidity provides freshness and is fundamental to the balance of the wine, influencing the perception of body and sweetness.
Alcohol
Alcohol contributes to the body of the wine, providing a warm sensation in the throat.
Body
The combination of sweetness, tannins, acidity and alcohol defines the body of the wine, which can be light, medium or full-bodied.
Conclusion
After tasting, reflect on the quality of the wine, considering its balance, complexity and overall impression. This is the time to use your personal judgment, whether simple or detailed, to evaluate your experience.
Mastering the wine tasting method enriches the tasting experience, allowing you to not only appreciate the different flavor profiles, but also understand the history and origin behind each bottle. With practice and curiosity, each wine tasted becomes a discovery, a story to be told and shared.
