intro to wine snobbery

When I first made the switch from college beer to grown-up-lady wine, I swirled, sniffed and spit but had no idea why. People would say things like “I taste quinine” or “Oooh, viscous,” and I would sip and pause like I was really thinking about it and then slowly nod in agreement. All I actually tasted was wine. Which was fine by me.

But now, many bottles and wine classes later, I’m getting the hang of it. And it’s really not as confusing as it seemed back then. Here’s all you need to know to drink with the wine snobs.

Why swirl?
Bringing oxygen into the wine enhances the aroma. Swirl the glass before you smell it to see if you like it; then look at the streaks of wine (known as “legs”) on the glass to see how quickly they evaporate. Some people think the legs reflect wine quality, but it’s more an indicator of alcohol content. Regardless, it’s an occasion to say “nice legs” without being accused of sexual harassment.

Read on for why to sniff, spit and sip...

Why sniff?
Smelling wine has two primary purposes: to increase your anticipation and make sure it's not corked (the wine equivalent of skunked beer). Even if you aren't that into wine, it’s a good idea to learn what different wine varietals smell and taste like. That way you have a better shot at buying a wine you’ll actually like instead of just guessing from the label.

Why spit?
So you don’t get blind drunk. Basically, the rules are that you swallow at a social event, but you can spit at a wine tasting. And you should, especially if you plan to sample a lot of wine. But remember, it’s wine, not chewing tobacco, so keep it classy. And keep in mind that you'll still get some alcohol in you even if you do spit, so don't assume you're safe to operate heavy machinery.

Most importantly, why sip?
You can, of course, guzzle wine without thinking and enjoy it very much. But you appreciate a sports game more when you care about the teams, right? And the brand of clothing can affect how you wear it, doesn't it? It's the same with wine. Knowing what you're drinking and why it tastes the way it does makes it a richer experience.

What are your thoughts on wine?

Comments

And if anyone is interested in learning more about wine (in a non-snob way of course) - contact me at
www.myttv.com/emily11820 and schedule your own in home wine tasting/lesson. There is no cost to you - all you need to do is invite your Wine Drinking, Wine Buying friends and serve ample food. (food/wine pairing will be provided)

If anyone is in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and would like to learn more about wine and enjoy an evening at home with your friends at an in-home wine tasting, please feel free to contact me at yourwineconnection@gmail.com or visit my website at www.yourwineconnection.com to learn more.

sipping wine really doesnt give you the true flavor of a wine. I am a novice at wine but I have learned to taste the real flavor instead of swirling try this:
(this is hard to explain but here goes)
have you ever had a soda with a straw? Blown bubbles from that straw into the soda? Well this is what you want to do with wine, only in the opposite direction and without a straw. I know, I know, your thinking this is crazy. Now believe me you don't want to do this on a regular basis because people will think you are very odd. Plus it does take practice. The point being it that when you swirl the wine in your mounth you want to get a little bit of air to the wine. It really does give the wine a much boulder flavor. Of course my description of the straw swirl think lacks, give it a try. Its kind of like taking a sip of really hot coffee, its that same slurring effect. You will really be amazed- just don't slobber on yourself

Where can I find Ice Wine around Greenville, Ohio? I here it is really a good wine.

I'd also recommend the "Windows on the World Complete Wine Course" book by Kevin Zraly. I also do wine tastings in the Chicago area. You don't have to be an expert to enjoy. http://www.myttv.com/clynn11860

RE:txsis5

Does this really work? Doesn't decanting a wine work in much the same way, to air the wine? I just want to see if this is a more elegant way to do it, versus slurping the wine at a dinner party :p

Being from Calif., Ive been drinking wine for many years, however I did not know the importance of correct tasting and food pairing until I became a wine consultant for The Traveling Vineyard. I now know why certain foods should be eaten with certain wines and why proper tasting enhances the subtle nuances of the
wine.
Contact me for a complimentary in home wine tasting andespecially to become a wine consultant yourself! Its fun, easy and you get paid to taste wine!

Thats amyswinecellar@aol.com or mywebsite
www.myttv.com/amy11638

Dawn Says:
September 27, 2007 at 03:28 AM

"Where can I find Ice Wine around Greenville, Ohio? I here it is really a good wine."

Ice wine comes from the Vineland area of Ontario Canada, (between Niagra Falls and Toronto). The term ice wine was coined there and is actually restricted to specific wines from that region, although some German winery's have used the term, (much debate over that recently, most of those "in the know" have consented to Canada's ownership of the term), similarly to the term champagne applying only to sparkling wine from the Champagne Valley. The grapes must be harvested during the winter months after they have been below freezing for at least two days on the vine. It takes one grape to produce a single drop of ice wine. Look in your higher end wine stores, most places are beginning to carry it as Canada is being recognized for some really wonderful wines coming out of that area. A word of warning though, ice wine is a desert wine, it is very sweet by design. I try to keep a small supply on hand myself. If you have trouble finding any, Google it up and search for wineries around Saint Catherines Ontario, many of them will sell over the internet.

Learn more from a FREE wine tasting with friends in the comfort of your own livingroom... and do your Christmass shopping at the same time! International boutique wines. Earn discounts, free shipping. Tastings in Dallas/Ft Worth. Or be a consultant in one of 30 states and learn even more, earn even more, and win free trips! I'm going to Tuscany for FREE! Ask me how you can too!

I find that when you take a sip of wine and then with the wine in your mouth make a chewing motion, you will get the flavor of the wine better. Then pair the right food with the wine for the best experience. I also am a cosultant, if you are iterested in hosting a Free Wine Tasting in your home with your friends or are interested in learing more about consultanting contact me I am located in NJ visit my site. www.myttv.com/Teresa10331

Hi Teresa,

I am Vonnie's sister and I was at the wine tasting Sat. 12/8 - I have a friend that is interested in having a wine tasting. When you have a minute could you e-mail me some available dates - thanks!
Looking forward to hearing from you.

Wine is just a fantastic beverage to have with fancy meals or when you are having a nice chat, remember red wines with dark meats white wines with fish.