Wine tasting etiquette
Wine tasting etiquette
Wine tasting etiquette
The Art of Professional Tasting: The Three Key Elements of Preparing the Environment, Glass, and Temperature Before Tasting
The Art of Professional Tasting: The Three Key Elements of Preparing the Environment, Glass, and Temperature Before Tasting
The Art of Professional Tasting: The Three Key Elements of Preparing the Environment, Glass, and Temperature Before Tasting
Tasting wine is an art that emphasizes detail, and the quality of the environment and preparation directly affects the tasting experience. Below is an in-depth analysis of how to choose an appropriate environment, use the correct glasses, and control the temperature to help you maximize the essence of wine.
1. Choose the Right Environment: Create a Professional Tasting Atmosphere
Quiet and Distraction-Free
Avoid Noise: Choose a space away from the hustle and bustle to focus your attention on the aromas and flavors of the wine. Excessive background noise can distract your sensory perception.
Pure Smells: The sense of smell is crucial in tasting, so avoid distracting odors like perfumes, candles, and strong foods. Professional tasting venues may even require attendees to refrain from using any scented products.
Natural Light: Natural light is the best option for observing the color and clarity of the wine. If artificial lighting is used, opt for soft lights that are close to white, avoiding overly bright or dim light.
Professional White Tablecloth Setup: Use a white tablecloth or background as a base for observing the color of the wine, as this allows for a more accurate determination of its hue.
Maintain Room Temperature: Keep the room temperature stable between 18-20°C, which is the optimal temperature range for the performance of most wines.
2. Use the Correct Glassware: Unleash the Potential of the Wine
Different types of wine correspond to their ideal glassware (more knowledge can be found in 【酒具】):
Red Wine:
Use wide-bowled glasses (such as Bordeaux glasses or Burgundy glasses) that allow red wine to come into contact with air, unleashing its complex aromas.
Bordeaux glasses are suitable for full-bodied red wines (like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), while Burgundy glasses are best for red wines with delicate fruit aromas (like Pinot Noir).
White Wine:
Narrow glasses concentrate the fresh aromas while maintaining a cooler temperature. They are suitable for white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
For white wines aged in oak barrels (such as aged Chardonnay), slightly wider glasses can be selected to balance the rich flavors.
Sparkling Wine:
Champagne flutes are tall and narrow, helping to keep the bubbles rising delicately and concentrate the aroma.
If you wish to experience the complex layers of champagne more deeply, consider using tulip-shaped glasses.
**A Gentle Reminder: Material and Cleaning
Choose clear, thin-walled glass without decorations for a clear observation and experience of the wine.
Glasses should be thoroughly cleaned and wiped with a clean cotton cloth to avoid any residual water stains or detergent flavors affecting the tasting.
