How to Taste Wine Like a Sommelier: A Simple Guide for Wine Lovers

Discover expert sommelier tips on how to taste wine like a pro. Learn the five S’s of wine tasting and elevate your experience!

Whether you’re sipping at a vineyard or pouring a glass at home, knowing how to properly taste wine can make the experience unforgettable. This step-by-step guide breaks it all down so you can savor each sip like a true sommelier (without the intimidating jargon).

1. Sight: What You See Matters

• Tip: Tilt your glass at a 45-degree angle over a white surface to observe the color.

• What to Look For:

• Red wines: Light-bodied reds (like Pinot Noir) have a lighter color, while full-bodied wines (like Cabernet Sauvignon) are deeper.

• White wines: Young whites are pale yellow, while aged whites may have a golden hue.

• Bonus: The wine’s “legs” (or tears) can indicate alcohol content—not sweetness.

Want crystal-clear glasses that make wine colors pop? Try Wine Glasses on Amazon  

2. Swirl: Unlock Aromas

Swirling aerates the wine, releasing aromas. Don’t skip this step—it’s like stretching before a workout.

• Pro Tip: Hold the glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine.

3. Smell: The Bouquet of Flavors

This is where things get exciting. Inhale deeply and identify:

• Primary Aromas: Fruity, floral, and herbal notes from the grapes.

• Secondary Aromas: Butter, vanilla, or toast from the winemaking process (like oak barrels).

Funny Personal Experience: A few months ago, I splurged on this Italian Sangiovese Rosé, feeling all fancy and grown-up. The bottle was gorgeous, the reviews were glowing, and I was ready for my little moment of wine-induced bliss. But when I popped it open and poured that first glass, instead of delicate notes of berries or florals, I was hit with… kitty litter. Specifically, used kitty litter. The kind that makes you question your life choices when cleaning it out. But once I allowed the wine to open up a bit I was able to decipher the aroma much better and concluded it actually smelled like grapefruit… embarrassing. 

4. Sip: The Moment of Truth

Take a sip, let it coat your palate, and think about:

• Sweetness: Does it have a hint of honey or none at all?

• Acidity: How mouthwatering is it?

• Tannins: Does it dry out your mouth (common in red wines)?

• Body: Is it light (like skim milk) or full-bodied (like whole milk)?

• Finish: How long do the flavors last?

Try  Coravin Wine Aerator to soften tannins in bold reds for a smoother experience.

5. Savor: Reflect on the Experience

Take a moment to think about how the wine evolved on your palate. This final step is what separates casual wine drinkers from pros—you’re not just drinking wine; you’re experiencing it.

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