Wine is one of the oldest drinks in the world and it has a very noble history. It is the drink of choice for royalty, aristocrats, and has even been used in religious sacraments. Wine comes in different types, from red to white, and even Rosé. Each variant has its own unique taste, attributes, and pairing recommendations. In this article, we will delve more into the world of wine and explore wine tasting and pairing recommendations.
Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is an art and a science that requires practice and patience. It involves using one’s senses to understand the attributes of a wine. To begin, ensure you have a clean glass specifically designed for wine tasting, with a wide base to allow for the wine to breathe effectively.
First, look at the color of the wine in the glass. White wines can range from pale yellow to golden yellow, while red wines can range from light ruby to deep burgundy. The color of the wine can give an indication of its age and level of oakiness.
Next, swirl the wine in the glass gently to allow air into it. Take a whiff of the aroma; this can be the most important sense in wine tasting because it can give an idea of the sweetness or dryness of the wine.
Take a small sip and let the mouthfeel distribute it evenly in the mouth. Allow the wine to linger on your tongue and savor its different tastes, including its level of acidity or sweetness. The aftertaste will also give insight into its overall flavors.
Pairing Recommendations
Wine pairing involves matching the right wine with the right food to accentuate and complement each other’s taste. Here are simple food pairing recommendations to help you enjoy your wine more.
Red Wine
Red wines such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir are best paired with meats such as beef, lamb, or venison. They are also best with pasta dishes, roasted vegetables such as tomatoes, and mature cheeses such as Gouda or blue.
White Wine
White wines such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio are best paired with seafood, poultry, light pasta dishes, and creamy dishes such as alfredo pasta. For cheese pairings, a crisp goat cheese or brie will work well.
Rosé Wine
Rosé wines such as Zinfandel and Grenache are best paired with spicy dishes, BBQ meats, and Asian cuisine. Brie, goat cheese, and even a bold cheddar are also perfect cheese pairing choices.
In conclusion, wine is a delectable drink that requires the right knowledge and practice, especially in wine tasting and pairing. It is a drink that can liven up any occasion, bring together family and friends, and inspire the inner sommelier in all of us. So, whether you are sipping at a local winery or in your own home, we hope these tips will help guide you in your wine journey, and that with every sip, you experience the art, science, and history of this noble drink.
