Why do people engage in wine tasting? Is it for show, elitism, or does it genuinely serve a purpose? Tasting is just that—discerning flavors with our tongue, which can identify sweet, salty, sour, and bitter tastes.
To be considered a wine expert, one must:
- Approach wine as research, not mere drinking. This involves critically examining the wine's color in the glass to gauge grape variety and quality.
- Smell the wine before tasting, identifying complex aromas beyond a "nice bouquet," such as specific fruit notes or honey.
- Taste the wine attentively, noting its texture and whether the aromas match the flavors detected by the nose.
Wine enthusiasts understand the distinction beyond just "white" and "red" wines, recognizing that wines like Pinotage, Shiraz, and Chardonnay each have unique profiles. They also pay attention to serving temperature, which enhances the wine's taste and aroma. For example, white and sweet wines are served cold to balance acidity, while red wines are served warmer to highlight their aromatic compounds.
Experts can identify a "corked" wine, which has a musty, unappealing taste, and know how to pair wine with food to enhance both the meal and the wine experience. They follow basic principles, such as pairing salty dishes with high-acid wines or fatty foods with wines that have a high acid or tannin content.
Ultimately, wine exploration is encouraged, with a willingness to try new pairings and varieties, embracing the adventure and discovery in the vast world of wine. Monogamy in wine tasting is discouraged; curiosity and experimentation are seen as virtues.