Red wine is a complex and intricate drink that offers  a wide range of sensory experiences. Tasting red wine is not just about drinking it but also about understanding and appreciating the different flavours and aromas that it has to offer. By following a few simple steps, you can learn how to taste the flavours of red wine like a professional.

Step 1: Look The first step in tasting red wine is to examine it visually. Hold the glass up to a light source and take note of its colour and clarity. The colour of red wine can range from a light, translucent ruby to a deep, opaque garnet. The shade of the wine can give you an indication of the wine’s age and varietal. The rim of the wine can also give you an indication of its age. Young wines typically have a bright and clear rim, while older wines tend to have a more faded or brick-like rim.

Step 2: Smell The next step is to take a whiff of the wine. Swirl the wine in the glass to release its aromas, then take a deep breath in through your nose. The aroma of the wine can give you a lot of information about the wine’s flavour profile. You may be able to detect notes of fruit, spice, herbs, flowers, or even earthy undertones. Each varietal has its own unique aroma, and learning to identify them can help you appreciate the complexity of red wine.

Step 3: Taste Now it’s time to taste the wine. Take a small sip and hold it in your mouth for a few seconds, allowing the flavours to fully develop. The initial taste of the wine is called the attack. It is the first impression that the wine makes on your taste buds. After the attack, you may be able to detect additional flavours that develop as the wine lingers in your mouth. These are known as the mid-palate and finish.

Step 4: Texture The texture of the wine is an important aspect of tasting it. The texture is how the wine feels in your mouth. Some wines may feel light and refreshing, while others may feel heavy and full-bodied. The texture can be influenced by the wine’s tannins, which are compounds that give wine its dryness and astringency. Tannins are often found in red wines and can give them a velvety, silky or gritty texture.