Visual. Smell. Taste.

The three stages in analyzing the offactory aspect of a wine.

V&V Wine Selections understands that not everyone is equal in their wine knowledge. Learning to Taste Wines can be intimidating when you are in the presence of educated wine enthusiasts. We have started a new series here to help you take the next step in your wine drinking enjoyment.

Visual. Smell. Taste. These are the three stages in analyzing the offactory aspect of a wine. * Holding the glass by its base without moving it, lower your nose into the glass. This first nose allows you to detect the aromas before swirling the wine around the glass. * Swirl the wine around the glass two or three times and take several gentle sniffs. This second nose allows you to detect the strongest aromas after having swirled the wine around. * Take a sip of the wine and gently trill it in your mouth while sucking in a little air. This retronasal technique allows you to taste the aromas in the mouth.