How to taste at the cellar door

Behind each wine unfolds a tale of grapes and vineyard soils, and the methods used to nurture, harvest and mature it. Tasting reveals the most delectable part of that story through the sensual experience of exploring a wine’s colour and bouquet, and discerning its subtle flavours.

Cellar doors are the place to ask questions and engage in the new, to learn about different wine styles, vintages, regional variations and the wine your palate prefers. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the experience, but these tips will smooth the way.

Tasting Order

Generally taste dry before sweet, white before red, and light before heavy. Try not to taste too many wines at once, especially if you plan to visit a few wineries that day. It is hard to distinguish and appreciate the characteristics of each wine without a bit of time between tastings.

Sampling

Staff at cellar doors will pour a splash of wine into your glass, giving it room to move and ‘breathe’. Hold the glass by the stem, in order not to warm the wine, and to allow you to view it easily.

Viewing

Tip the glass to about 45 degrees and hold it against a pale background, observing the wine’s colour. White wines vary from almost colourless to pale green and rich yellow, while red wines range from deep, dark burgundy to brick red and bright plum.

Sniff, Sip, Spit

Swirl the wine in the glass and dip your nose inside to sample the bouquet. Then sip, allowing the wine to move around your mouth for a few seconds, appreciating the flavours and nuances that emerge. Then spit into the spittoon provided. This is especially important if you are driving.

Aim to note the primary elements that make up the wine’s overall character, often described in the context of fruit, flower, culinary, earth and herb aromas and flavours. Sweetness, acidity, tannin and alcohol provide the wine’s structure, while the body and texture, or ‘mouth feel’, provide an additional dimension.

Water

Drink plenty of it – there should be a jug on the counter at cellar doors. Take time to stop for a meal or snack at local eateries along the way to ensure you are not overwhelmed by alcohol.

Be Curious

Do ask questions about the wines you taste. You will appreciate them more, and discover the universal language of wine.

Tasting Fees

Some cellars charge a small fee for tastings. This is a worldwide trend due to the increasing costs of providing good facilities and having knowledgeable staff.