Wine tasting is an acquired skill that takes time to develop. It allows you to identify the individual flavors that are found in each bottle of wine and provides the information you need to determine which is your favorite. If you’re interested in wine tasting, but aren’t sure how to go about it, the following four tips should help you become familiar with the process.

4 Tips for Your Next Wine Tasting

1. Visually Inspect the Drink

Before taking a sip or even smelling the wine, take a moment to look at it. The color, clarity, and thickness of the wine can tell a lot about the drink and will help you evaluate the sweetness and strength. By learning to identify these basic features, you’ll find it easier in the future to identify which wines you will prefer without having to ask for a taste.

2. Take a Small Whiff

Gently swirl the wine and raise the glass to your nose, inhaling the aromas with long, slow breaths. Try not to focus on a specific smell—you want to stay receptive to other unique characteristics. The foundational aromas, such as fruits or flowers, can be used as guideposts that lead you to the subtle undertones.

3. Sample a Little Bit

Take a small sip of the wine and hold it in your mouth for 2–5 seconds. Roll it slowly over your tongue. Consider the taste, texture, and flavor duration. Does the flavor evolve with time or is it stable? If you can pinpoint the qualities you like, you might be able to find new wines with similar attributes. 

4. Make a Note

At a wine tasting, use a small card and pen to note your favorite bottles and their qualities. Try to include a rating to remind yourself why you liked or disliked a particular wine. You might also include points about what foods you’d want to pair with the wine in the future.

Discover a new favorite wine at Mainstreet Coffee & Wine Bar. With locations in Farmington, Apple Valley, Burnsville, and Prior Lake, MN, this locally owned business offers an extensive selection of specialty coffees, craft beer, and wine. Their menu features a variety of food items at unbeatable prices, and catering service is available with free delivery. Call (952) 985-7650 to make a reservation, or visit their website for a detailed look at their wine menu.