Learn About Wine
With so many varieties to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin learning about wine. We'll help you expand your palate and your knowledge.
Visiting wineries is a great way to learn about different varietals, but there’s so much you can uncover from the comfort of home.
Let us take you on an exciting wine journey — one that goes behind the scenes and beyond the labels of the rich array of styles and producers. Sip back, relax and discover the world of wine! Here you’ll learn why the shape of each glass is suited to the wine it serves, how the correct temperature can enhance the flavor and aroma of the wine, why people decant a wine and how to evaluate the wine you’re tasting.
Evaluating Wine
Wine tasting involves more than just your tastebuds — you also need to notice the appearance and bouquet of the wine. Follow the “Five S’s of Wine Tasting” to fully appreciate each vintage.
Sight
Many clues about wine lie in the color, clarity and possible presence of carbonation or noticeable sediment.
Swirl
Look at the visual clues, aerate the wine and bring out its aromas.
Sniff
Sniff the wine in the glass, taking several short, deep sniffs, and think about the aromas.
Sip
Sip and make a chewing motion with your mouth, coating the areas inside your mouth and around your tongue.
Spit
In order to maintain a clear head and maintain the ability to make assessments by smelling and tasting, you should spit during tasting sessions.
Temperature Guide
Serving your wine at the correct temperature can greatly enhance its flavor and aroma. Keep a few simple rules in mind so as not to serve red wine too warm and white wine too cold.
Glass Guide
Choosing a wine glass may be more complicated than knowing which fork to use at a fancy dinner, but it’s worth considering because the right choice will add greatly to your appreciation of the wine. Consult this guide next time you set the table.
