Wine tasting is an art, and like any art, it requires finesse, sophistication, and a certain level of etiquette. While wine tastings are meant to be enjoyable and educational, there are certain faux pas that can make you stand out for all the wrong reasons. To avoid being “that person” at the wine tasting, it’s essential to know what not to do.
The Pre-Wine Tasting No-Nos
Before we dive into the dos and don’ts of wine tasting, let’s cover a few pre-tasting mistakes that can set the tone for a less-than-ideal experience.
Failing to Research the Wine
Not researching the wine beforehand can make you appear uninformed and uninterested. Take some time to learn about the wine region, the grape varieties, and the winemaking techniques used. This will not only help you appreciate the wine more but also show your hosts that you’re invested in the experience.
Not Dressing Appropriately
Wine tastings are often held at vineyards, wineries, or upscale venues, and the dress code may vary. However, it’s generally a good idea to dress in smart casual attire, avoiding torn jeans, flip flops, and overly casual clothing. You want to make a good impression, not stick out like a sore thumb.
What Not to Do During the Wine Tasting
Now that we’ve covered the pre-tasting no-nos, let’s move on to the dos and don’ts of the wine tasting itself.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions, But Don’t Overdo It
It’s completely normal to have questions about the wine, especially if you’re new to wine tasting. However, bombarding the host or sommelier with too many questions can be overwhelming. Keep your questions concise and thoughtful, and avoid dominating the conversation.
Don’t Swirl and Sniff with Wild Abandon
wIne tasting is not a contact sport, and swirling and sniffing the wine should be done with finesse. Avoid vigorously swirling the wine, as this can splatter the liquid and make a mess. When sniffing the wine, take slow, deliberate whiffs to appreciate the aromas.
Avoid the “I Know More Than You” Attitude
It’s great to be knowledgeable about wine, but approaching the wine tasting with a condescending attitude can be off-putting. Remember that wine is subjective, and what you may think is the “right” way to taste wine may not be the same for others.
Don’t Over- or Under-Swirl the Wine
Swirling the wine is an art, and doing it too much or too little can affect the flavors and aromas. Aim for a gentle, smooth swirl to release the wine’s flavors, but avoid over-swirling, which can oxygenate the wine and make it taste bitter.
What Not to Say at a Wine Tasting
Verbal faux pas can be just as detrimental to your wine tasting experience as physical ones. Here are a few phrases to avoid saying at a wine tasting:
Avoid Saying “I Don’t Like Wine”
It’s okay to not like a particular wine, but saying you don’t like wine in general can come across as close-minded. Instead, try saying “I’m not familiar with this wine” or “I’m still developing my palate.”
Don’t Say “This Wine Is Too [Insert Adjective Here]”
Avoid making broad, subjective statements about the wine, such as “This wine is too dry” or “This wine is too sweet.” Instead, try to describe the wine in more specific terms, such as “I detect notes of oak and vanilla” or “I find this wine to be quite tannic.”
What Not to Do After the Wine Tasting
The wine tasting may be over, but the experience doesn’t have to end there. Here are a few post-tasting no-nos to avoid:
Don’t Forget to Thank Your Hosts
A simple “thank you” can go a long way, especially if your hosts have taken the time to educate you about the wine. Be sure to express your gratitude for the experience and the knowledge shared.
Don’t Overstay Your Welcome
While it’s great to linger and chat with fellow wine enthusiasts, overstaying your welcome can be tiresome for your hosts. Be mindful of the time and make sure you’re not monopolizing the conversation or the wine.
Conclusion
Wine tasting is a unique and enjoyable experience, but it’s essential to approach it with respect and etiquette. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a sophisticated wine enthusiast. Remember to research the wine beforehand, dress appropriately, and approach the wine tasting with an open mind and a willingness to learn. And most importantly, always be respectful and considerate of your hosts and fellow wine enthusiasts. Happy sipping!
What is the proper way to hold my wine glass?
The proper way to hold your wine glass is by the stem, not by the bowl of the glass. This is because the heat from your hand can affect the temperature of the wine, which can alter its flavor and aroma. Holding the glass by the stem also prevents any oils or residue from your hand from coming into contact with the wine.
Additionally, holding the glass by the stem allows you to subtly swirl the wine, which is an important part of the wine tasting process. Swirling the wine helps to release the aromas and flavors, allowing you to fully appreciate the wine’s characteristics. It’s a small detail, but one that can make a big difference in your wine tasting experience.
How do I know which wine to pour first?
When attending a wine tasting, it’s generally considered proper etiquette to pour the white wine before the red wine. This is because white wines are typically served chilled, and pouring them first helps to preserve their crisp, refreshing character. Red wines, on the other hand, are usually served at room temperature, and pouring them after the white wine helps to prevent them from becoming too warm.
It’s also a good idea to pour the wines in the order in which they will be served. For example, if you’re serving a sparkling wine, such as champagne, it’s best to pour it first, followed by the still wines. This helps to create a logical progression and makes it easier for your guests to follow along.
What’s the deal with swirling my wine?
Swirling your wine is an important part of the wine tasting process. It helps to release the aromas and flavors of the wine, allowing you to fully appreciate its characteristics. When you swirl your wine, you’re introducing oxygen into the glass, which helps to open up the wine and bring out its complexities.
The key to swirling your wine is to do it gently but deliberately. Hold the glass by the stem and rotate it in a circular motion, making sure to keep the wine in contact with the sides of the glass. This helps to release the aromas and flavors, and it can also help to remove any sediment or impurities that may be present in the wine.
How do I know how much to pour?
When pouring wine, it’s generally considered proper etiquette to pour a small amount, about 1-2 ounces, into each glass. This allows each guest to fully appreciate the wine without feeling overwhelmed. It also helps to prevent waste, as you can always pour more wine if needed.
The amount you pour will also depend on the type of wine and the occasion. For example, if you’re serving a rare or expensive wine, you may want to pour a smaller amount to make it last longer. On the other hand, if you’re serving a more casual wine, you may want to pour a bit more to encourage relaxation and conversation.
Can I wear perfume or cologne to a wine tasting?
It’s best to avoid wearing perfume or cologne to a wine tasting, as fragrances can interfere with your sense of smell and affect your ability to fully appreciate the wine. Perfumes and colognes can be overpowering and overwhelm the subtle aromas of the wine, making it difficult to discern its characteristics.
Instead, opt for unscented or lightly scented personal care products, and avoid applying fragrances altogether. This will help you to better appreciate the nuances of the wine and get the most out of your wine tasting experience.
What if I don’t like the wine?
If you don’t like the wine, it’s completely okay to say so. However, it’s best to do so in a polite and respectful manner. You might say something like, “This wine isn’t really my style,” or “I’m not getting the flavors I expected from this wine.” Avoid making negative or disparaging comments, as this can be off-putting to others.
It’s also a good idea to try to identify what you don’t like about the wine, and to ask questions. This shows that you’re interested in learning more and willing to consider different perspectives. Who knows, you may even discover a new wine that you love!
How do I properly dispose of my wine glass?
When you’re finished with your wine glass, it’s best to place it on a flat surface, such as a table or counter, rather than leaving it on the edge of a table or chair. This helps to prevent accidents and spills.
It’s also a good idea to rinse your glass with water before disposing of it, especially if you’re at a wine tasting event. This helps to remove any remaining wine residue and prevents the buildup of sediment. Finally, be sure to recycle your wine glass whenever possible, as this helps to reduce waste and conserve natural resources.