How to write about wines correctly

Writing about wines may seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re not a wine expert. However, with some basic knowledge and a few key techniques, you can effectively communicate your experiences and opinions about wines. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a passionate oenophile, here are some guidelines to help you about wines correctly.

1. Develop your wine vocabulary: To adequately describe a wine, it’s essential to expand your wine vocabulary. Familiarize yourself with common wine terms such as body, acidity, tannins, aroma, and finish. Consider keeping a wine tasting journal to jot down specific descriptors or scents that you encounter in different wines. Regular practice will enhance your ability to express your thoughts about the wine accurately and vividly.

2. Observe the wine’s appearance: Begin your descriptive journey by examining the wine’s appearance. Assess its color, clarity, and intensity. Is it pale yellow or deep ruby? Is it crystal clear or hazy? Take note of these visual attributes, as they provide valuable insights into the wine’s age, grape variety, and possible winemaking techniques.

3. Engage your senses: Wine tasting isn’t just about the taste; it’s an experience that caters to all your senses. Bring the wine glass to your nose, inhale deeply, and identify the aromas. Is it fruity, floral, or more earthy? Try to detect specific scents like blackberries, toasty oak, or vanilla. Take time to appreciate the wine’s aromatics before moving on to the next step.

4. Assess the taste: Take a sip, and let the wine coat your palate. Note the wine’s body, which refers to its weight and mouthfeel. Is it light-bodied, medium-bodied, or full-bodied? Consider the wine’s acidity; does it make your mouth water or seem flat? Evaluate the presence of tannins, which are compounds responsible for the wine’s structure and texture. Are they soft and velvety or grippy and astringent? Finally, evaluate the flavors on your palate. Seek out the primary fruit flavors and any secondary or tertiary flavors that might evolve over time.

5. Consider the wine’s structure: When writing about wines, it’s crucial to comment on the overall structure of the wine. Does it feel well-balanced, with the component parts working in harmony, or is something overpowering? Balance refers to the interplay between acidity, tannins, and sweetness, while complexity pertains to the layers of flavors that unfold as you taste the wine. Both aspects are essential to consider when describing the quality of a wine.

6. Reflect on the finish: As you swallow the wine, pay attention to the finish, which is the lingering sensation the wine leaves behind. Is the finish short and abrupt, or does it persist on the palate, gradually unveiling additional flavors? The length and intensity of the finish offer valuable insights into the wine’s quality and depth.

7. Be mindful of subjectivity: Remember that everyone’s palate is unique, and personal preferences greatly influence how one perceives and evaluates wines. Use your personal experiences as a guide but maintain an open mind towards others’ opinions. Additionally, avoid using exaggerated language or extravagant comparisons that may lead to inflated expectations or misleading descriptions.

8. Practice and share your experiences: Like any skill, writing about wines requires practice. The more you taste and write about different wines, the better you’ll become at accurately conveying your thoughts and experiences. Share your writings with fellow wine enthusiasts or join tasting groups to expand your knowledge and receive valuable feedback.

In conclusion, writing about wines correctly comes down to developing your wine vocabulary, engaging your senses, and thoughtfully evaluating key elements of the wine. With practice and an open mind, you can effectively communicate your experiences and opinions, contributing to the vibrant world of wine appreciation.