How to Taste Wine Like a Pro

1. See

Tilt the glass over a white background (like a napkin or tablecloth). Look at the color and opacity.

• White Wines: Range from pale straw (young, cool climate) to deep gold (aged, oaky).
• Red Wines: Range from translucent ruby (Pinot Noir) to opaque purple-black (Cabernet, Syrah).
• Age: Reds get lighter and browner with age; whites get darker.

2. Swirl

Keep the base of the glass on the table and draw small circles. Swirling introduces oxygen into the wine, which "opens up" the aromas. It's not just for show—it releases the volatile compounds that make wine smell like... wine.

Pro Tip: Don't fill your glass more than a third full, or you'll spill when you swirl!

3. Sniff

Stick your nose right into the glass and take a deep breath. Your sense of smell is actually more important than your sense of taste for identifying flavors.

4. Sip

Take a small sip and swirl it around your mouth. Some pros even suck in a little air (gargling) to further aerate the wine.

Focus on the Structure:

• Sweetness: Is there sugar on the tip of your tongue?
• Acidity: Does it make your mouth water?
• Tannin: Does it dry out your gums (red wine only)?
• Alcohol: Do you feel warmth in your throat?
• Body: Does it feel like skim milk (light) or cream (full)?

5. Savor

Swallow (or spit, if you're professional). Pay attention to the Finish.

How long does the flavor last? A long, complex finish is the hallmark of a high-quality wine. If the flavor disappears instantly, it's likely a simple, everyday wine.

Practice Makes Perfect

The best way to learn is to taste comparatively. Pour two different wines side-by-side (e.g., a Pinot Noir and a Cabernet) and go through these steps. You'll spot the differences immediately.