Introduction to Wine Tasting

Embarking on the journey of wine tasting might seem daunting but fear not, it’s an experience that anyone can enjoy. It is challenging going to a wine retail shop and getting lost in all the labels.

Therefore, we have decided to make it easy to understand and categorize our wines into these categories:

• Body (Mouthfeel)

  This refers to the weight, richness, and overall feel of the wine in your mouth

  • Light-bodied wines, such as Pinot Noir and Vinho Verde, feel similar to skim milk in the mouth. They are usually lower in alcohol, with subtle flavors and a refreshing quality. Light-bodied wines are often enjoyed slightly chilled and pair well with lighter dishes.

  • Medium-bodied wines, like Merlot and Chardonnay, have a moderate weight on the palate, akin to whole milk. They offer a balance between lightness and richness, with more pronounced flavors and complexity. These wines are versatile and can pair with a wide range of foods.

  • Full-bodied wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and oaked Chardonnay, have a rich, creamy, and velvety texture in the mouth, similar to heavy cream. They often have higher alcohol content and intense flavors, often influenced by oak aging. Full-bodied wines are excellent companions for hearty, flavorful dishes.

• Sweet/Dry

  The perception of sweetness varies from wine to wine, ranging from barely perceptible sweetness (as in some dry wines with just a hint of residual sugar) to intensely sweet (as in dessert wines)

  • Dry wines are wines that contain very little or no residual sugar, meaning that most of the grape sugars have been converted into alcohol during fermentation. These wines have a crisp, tart, and non-sweet taste. The absence of sweetness allows for a clean, refreshing finish that is characteristic of dry wines.

  • Dry wines can range from light-bodied to full-bodied and are often characterized by their balanced acidity. They pair well with a variety of foods and are popular choices for those who prefer a more savory or tart flavor profile. Examples of dry wines include many Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Merlots

  • The next spectrum will be off-dry wines have a subtle hint of sweetness. The sweetness is noticeable but not overwhelming, providing a balanced taste between sweetness and acidity.

  • Semi-Sweet: Semi-sweet wines have a moderate level of sweetness. They are noticeably sweet but still maintain a good balance with acidity

  • Sweet: Sweet wines have a pronounced sugary taste. These wines can be dessert wines or late-harvest wines, and they are often served with desserts due to their sweetness

• Tannins

  • Have you ever noticed your mouth feeling dry after sipping tea? That sensation is caused by the presence of "tannins."

  • Tannins are naturally occurring compounds found in various plant parts, including grape skins, seeds, and stems. In wine, tannins are derived mainly from the grape skins, as well as from aging the wine in oak barrels.

  • All wines have tannins, but they are more prominent in red wines due to the fermentation process

  • The relationship between wine enthusiasts and tannins is a "love-hate" affair.

    • On one hand, tannins are beloved for the structure and complexity they bring to red wines. They add depth, balance, and astringency, which are essential for the aging process.

    • On the other hand, the astringency of tannins can dry out the tongue with an unpleasant sensation.

  • The best made wines craft a fine balance in the level of tannins.