Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey into the world of wine? Join me as we uncover the art of tasting wine, sip by sip. I’m Madeline Puckette, co-founder of winefolly.com, where we believe in learning by drinking. Today, I’ll guide you through the four essential steps of wine tasting that will enhance your wine assessment skills and make you a pro at blind tastings. So grab a glass of wine and let’s get started!
Step 1: The Visual Feast
Before you dive into the sumptuous flavors, take a moment to appreciate the wine’s visual allure. Hold your glass against the light and observe the hue, intensity, and viscosity. As you gaze at the mesmerizing colors, consider the Oregon Pinot Noir by Elk Cove in front of you. It’s a captivating 2014 vintage, renowned for its exceptional quality. Take note of its pale ruby and purple hues, beckoning you to discover its hidden treasures.
Step 2: Unleash the Aromas
Now, let’s awaken your senses with the captivating aromas of the wine. Gently swirl your glass to release the aromatic compounds, allowing them to dance and mingle. Take a moment to inhale the mesmerizing scents. With each whiff, aim to identify three distinct fruits and three other flavors that tantalize your olfactory senses. This Pinot Noir reveals notes of sweet cherries, luscious strawberries, and tangy raspberries. Additionally, you may detect delicate hints of roses, a touch of fennel, and a whisper of vanilla cupcake. These aromatic revelations set the stage for your palate’s journey.
Step 3: The Tasting Experience
It’s time to indulge in the moment you’ve been waiting for – savoring the wine on your palate. Take a generous sip and let it coat your mouth, savoring the entire experience. As you swallow, pay attention to the alcohol’s gentle warmth caressing the back of your throat. Now, breathe in and out through your nose, allowing the retro nasal olfaction to enhance your perception. Notice any additional aromas that may arise, like the intriguing scent of dried leaves.
While tasting, focus not only on the flavors but also on the wine’s structural elements. Is it sweet or pleasantly dry? This Pinot Noir leans towards the dry side, offering a delightful tartness that awakens your taste buds. Notice the acidity, invigorating your palate with its lively presence. As for tannins, which create that unique mouth-drying sensation, this wine offers a delicate touch, akin to a fine grit sandpaper. Lastly, the alcohol content gracefully complements the other components, making this wine beautifully balanced.
Step 4: The Final Verdict
As you conclude your tasting experience, take a moment to reflect on the wine’s overall profile. Is it a bold and robust wine, or does it lean towards the lighter and more delicate side? This Pinot Noir falls on the lighter spectrum, harmonizing perfectly with its red fruit flavors. The well-balanced combination of alcohol, acidity, and minimal tannins is a testament to its craftsmanship. Though not overly complex, it offers an intriguing and enjoyable wine experience that leaves you wanting more.
As you continue to explore and taste different wines, your understanding of Oregon Pinot Noir, especially from Elk Cove, will expand and refine. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, with each new glass of wine you encounter, repeat this guided tasting process to enhance your wine assessment skills and develop a discerning palate.
If you desire further assistance, visit our website, Hook’d Up Bar and Grill, where you can find a wealth of resources, including our insightful color chart and our book, “Wine Folly,” dedicated to the art of wine appreciation. Let your taste buds embark on a remarkable journey as you uncover the secrets of wine through the joy of tasting. Cheers to your ever-evolving wine expertise!