An Introduction to Wine Tasting and Its Classy Allure
For as long as high society has existed, there have been many past times, habits, and hobbies that have defined it. From high fashion to banquets and buffets, the upper echelons of society have always sought to distinguish themselves through participating in lavish, luxurious experiences, and so it shall remain to this day.
As times have evolved, however, some habits and hobbies previously reserved only for the upper-class have been democratized, opening their availability to the masses in the process.
This allows them to take part in activities that were previously held behind societal barriers to entry.
Chief amongst these democratized hobbies is that of wine tasting.
Wine tasting is an age-old activity that has existed in prominence since the origins of brewed beverages themselves and is comprised of the sensory examination and/or evaluation of wine, from the brews of drudgery to the classy Monterey Chardonnay from Highlands 41.
Though wine tasting has existed since the origins of the wine itself, as mentioned previously, it is only in the 14th century that we begin to see some degree of formalized organization and methodology.
In modern times, professional and expert wine tasters such as retail buyers or sommeliers make use of a specialized wine tasting terminology that is constantly evolving.
Such terminology is used to both pinpoint and distinguish between the various differing perceived flavors, aromas, and general characteristics of the wines.
In the case of less formal or more recreational tasting events, similar terminology will still be used but with less of an emphasis on professionalism and more so on casualness.
You can become an expert wine taster through sommelier certification (somm.us).
One trait of wine tasting that sets it apart from other habits which were previously reserved for the upper class is the fact that, regardless of the democratization of the hobby, wine tasting has still largely maintained its upper echelon allure and mystique.
To this day, wine tasting and those that participate in it are looked upon with an air of bourgeoisie still not found in even modern-day high-class activities.
Wine tasting is, thus, unique in that its enabled access has done almost nothing to detract from its famous appeal.
With all of that being said, we will now take the chance to delve into the process of attending a wine tasting and what exactly one can expect to encounter and participate in when attending one.
So without further ado, let us begin!
The Process of Attending a Wine Tasting
Using this list below, we’ll be listing out some tips and pointers to focus on and look out for when attending a wine tasting event.
Dress For the Occasion
First and foremost of the pointers, you should keep in mind when attending a wine tasting is that it is a formal event before anything else, and as such, your approach to how you present yourself is paramount. Make sure to don some of the more high-quality fabrics at your disposal. Arrange them and conduct yourself in such a manner that bleeds regality into the scene.
Not just a focus on regality, however, you must also apply an air of fashion to your choice of outfit; simply give it a dash of your personal character then head out for the event.
Don’t Apply Any Fragrances
Our second pointer here almost seems to directly contradict our first one, but it is imperative that you don’t apply any fragrances to your body. The aroma of wine is paramount to the tasting process and crucial for your ability to pinpoint the differences between each, so you don’t want any artificial scents impeding your ability to make a sound judgment.
Remember to Spit/Mouthwash
As you move on throughout the night, you’ll find that your tastebuds slowly become overwhelmed by the onslaught of different wines. As such, it’s important to remember to spit and wash your mouth out with water periodically. The reason for this is the fact that the melded-together tastes of various wines can corrupt the flavor of future wines that you test throughout the night.
Discuss With the Winemakers
As the last pointer for attending wine tasting events, you’ll want to remember to try your best to get in a word with the winemakers themselves. Not only can you take this time to ask any questions you may have, but wine tasting events are primarily social in nature and you’d be surprised how much better a glass can taste with a good story to back it up.
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