How To Taste Wine Like A Pro

Don't be intimated by wine tasting. Whether you're a newbie or a pro, anyone can learn how to taste wine like an expert. In this episode of Wine 101, Certified Sommelier and our lovely host, Vince Anter, explains wine-tasting technique in 4 simple steps.

Step 1: Sight
In this step, Vince explains how to evaluate wine using our first sense – sight. Is the wine clear or cloudy? Transparent or opaque? What is the color? Are there legs? The depth of color gives clues to the grape variety.

Step 2: Nose
Second, Vince explains how to evaluate wine using our second sense – smell. First we swirl, then we sniff. What are the fruit characters that you pick up? Citrus or red fruit? What are the non-fruit characters you pick up? Herbs or earthiness? The aromas offer clues to the grape variety used and the winemaking technique and storage process. Identifying a wine's aroma prepares your brain for what you're about to taste.

Step 3: Palate
Next, Vince explains how to evaluate wine using our third sense – taste. Sip the wine. Do you taste the same aromas that you smelled? What is the structure of the wine? Is it acidic and makes your mouth water? Is it a high alcohol wine that leaves a warming sensation? Is the wine bitter and dry or is light and sweet? The structure reveals the elements of acidity, alcohol, body, tannins, and sweetness of the wine.

Step 4: Analysis
In the last step, Vince explains how to evaluate wine by using our last sense – savor. Is the relationship between the acidity, alcohol, body, tannins, and sweetness of the wine balanced? How long is the finish? Usually, high-quality wine is indicated by how long the flavors last in your mouth. Is the wine complex? Are the flavors simple or are there several layers? The harmony of the wine's aromas, structure, and balance determines the quality of the wine.

By following these 4 simple steps to wine tasting, you will learn how to make sense of wine, by focusing your attention and engaging your senses.

It will enhance your pleasure of drinking wine, and you will discover a palette that suits you – so that you can confidently buy wine that’s fit for you.

00:00 - Intro
01:35 - Step 1: Sight
03:43 - Step 2: Nose
08:03 - Step 3: Palate
10:19 - Step 4: Analysis
11:15 - Conclusion

After watching our channel you’ll understand the wine you’re drinking, buy it with confidence, get better deals, and share your experience and passion for wine with others! Whether you're a newbie or a pro, V is for Vino makes wine theory easy to understand and accessible to all.

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[michaelaG]

I LOVE wines that are red and dark of color! They always taste best! Keep in mind, I'm talking about Dry red wine! My go to everyday

[emilyrosero]

My husband and I are having a date night and we watch your video while we drink wine. Thank you !! Great video

[elianasmith]

Your video presentation was not only informative but engaging as well. Thank you for providing such valuable guidance!

[LadyAceRoxy]

This is probably the best video I have ever seen on how to taste wine. Super useful and helpful!
I have noticed in this video and one other you say that red wine is the only wine with tannins. What about orange wine? Do you have any videos taking about the history of orange wines?
Thanks for the awesome content!

[CoolCars]

Great Video. The way you approach topics really help me understand wine better. I work for a winery in Santa Rosa, and am actively trying to learn more about wine.

[hopejordan]

This is a great informational video. I am flagging this as a favorite as I plan to rewatch probably several times 🍷

[bethdevine]

I would love a video on Albariño… Seems to be more popular now and it’s one of my favorites

[bethdevine]

Great info. I’m sharing this with some of my friends. Prepping for A trip to Finger Lakes. Cheers 🍷

[waltersturdivant]

very good lesson and well done I subscribed and looking forward to seeing more of the wine tips, thumbs up!

[Elias_R]

Loved this!! So thankful for your wine wisdom! 💯

[cynthiagauntt]

Wonderful video. Thank you. I am still having trouble learning how to pick out the aromas in my red wines. I can usually pick out one and then struggle after that. I’m not giving up.

[julianadesa]

Just found out your channel through the Bordeaux video. Omg your content is GOLD! I'm so happy to have found this 😍 please keep making these videos! I would love some more content on Burgundian wine ❤️

[timelapsevideo]

Excellent, very Clear explanation. Thanks.

[lydialeveque]

loved the way you explained how to do this. took the snobby out of wine tasting to help me get better at it. going to try this tonight! thanks!

[reneedonventrice]

love how you have simplified it- cheers!

[MK]

I wish I saw this video before I visited Greek Islands, where I visited three wineries! This was very informative! With anything, it takes practice! I am going on a wine trail in my hometown area this weekend, so I will keep the information you provided in this video in mind! Looking forward to watching more of your contents!

[narindersawhney]

Very well explained I am also involved in last 50 years and have been lots of Wine tastings and Vinyards

[ionturkk]

soo comprehensible and beneficial video, appreciate that!

[MichealPeggins]

Thanks for the video. Best I've seen on the topic 👌

[JoshD]

I bought Kim Crawford Pinot noir and I found it taste very tart/sour high acidity. Strong flavour of cherry plum and earthy. When I swirled it and smelled I could tell it was going to be very sour. My mouth did not feel dried out so I’m guessing it’s medium to low tannin.

Thank you for educating me on the steps to identify the different smells and tastes. Much appreciated.