Many people aren’t aware that there’s a proper way to taste and drink wine. Taking a few simple steps can help you better understand what types of wines you enjoy, so you can continue to have a positive wine tasting experience. If you enjoy drinking wine on occasion but want to elevate the experience, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Important Tips for Wine Tasting & Drinking

Look for Quality

After pouring a glass, which should be filled to the widest part of the bulb, take a moment to look at the liquid. Notice its color, transparency, and consistency as wines offer a wide array of visual characteristics. Taking a moment to look for these qualities allows you to make better wine choices in the future. For example, if you enjoy a white wine that is a deep golden shade, you can continue to look for wines that have a similar appearance.

Swirl & Smell

So much of a wine’s flavor is contained in its scent. To get the full intensity of the aromas, carefully move the glass around in slow, smooth circles while holding the stem. Then hold the glass to your nose and enjoy the aroma. Notice if there are hints of citrus, floral tones, or earthy scents. This should give you a fairly accurate assessment of the wine’s overall flavor.

Sip Slowly

Wine is meant to be enjoyed slowly and intentionally. Instead of quickly guzzling down a full glass, take some time with each sip. You might even pause with each one or swirl the wine in your mouth for a moment to truly experience the taste. Look for specific elements, like sweetness, bitterness, or acidity, so you can evaluate exactly what you like about the flavor. This can help you get a better idea of what type of wines you enjoy, so you can make the best possible decisions the next time you shop for a bottle.

If you’re interested in wine tasting, hone your skills at Oeno Winemaking in Kailua, HI. This local winery offers a personalized, hands-on winemaking experience and custom design options. Sign up for their wine club to get four shipments of quality bottles throughout the year, giving you the opportunity to try out different varieties and attend exclusive events. Book your wine tasting online, or call (808) 263-6366 to speak with a team member about the wines they sell.