How to Taste Wine

How to Taste Wine First, bring the glass down to a normal level and, while holding the stem, swirl the glass rapidly. This will increase the surface area of the wine by allowing it to move up the sides of the glass. This also helps to release the volatile chemicals of the wine into the air. Second, stop swirling. Insert your nose into the glass and inhale by taking quick, full sniffs. Some people prefer …

…of these methods will force the aromas of the wine through the nasal passage and will increase your experience of the wine. Fifth, note how long the flavors remain in your mouth after you've swallowed the wine. This is called length. Some wines can have up to one minute of length. Also be aware of any overbearing presence of alcohol. A wine should have enough balance that you're barely aware of the alcohol in it.