See

• Observing Colour and Clarity: The first step in wine tasting is visual. Look at the wine under a good light. Notice its colour, which can range from pale yellow in whites to deep purple in reds. The colour can give you clues about the grape variety, the age of the wine, and the potential flavour profiles.
• Examining Legs and Tears: When you swirl the wine, observe the “legs” or “tears” that form on the side of the glass. They can indicate the wine’s alcohol and sugar content.

Swirl

• Aerating the Wine: Gently swirl the wine in your glass. This action helps to aerate the wine, releasing a range of aromas. It also indicates the wine’s body – fuller-bodied wines will leave more pronounced legs on the glass.
• Developing Patience: Take your time with this step. Swirling is an essential part of setting the stage for the next sensory experiences.

Sniff

• Identifying Aromas: Bring the glass to your nose and take a deep sniff. Try to identify different aromas. Is it fruity, floral, earthy, or spicy? Each wine has a unique bouquet that can tell you a lot about its character and quality.
• Building Your Scent Memory: The more wines you smell, the better you’ll become at identifying different notes. This skill can significantly enhance your tasting experience.

Sip

• Tasting the Wine: Now, take a small sip. Let the wine roll around your mouth to reach all your taste buds. Consider the body, sweetness, acidity, tannins, and flavour profile of the wine.
• The Finish: Pay attention to the aftertaste, or the finish. How long does the flavour linger? A longer finish often indicates a higher quality wine.

By practicing the Four S’s of Wine Tasting, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of wine. We invite you to explore the wide range of wines available at Harvest Beer Wine Spirits and apply these techniques to enhance your tasting experience. Cheers to your wine tasting journey!