Wine Fact: Aromas and Flavours

Did you know...?
All wine enthusiasts will tell you that it is the aroma of the wine which is more important than the flavour.

Why?
Our tongues are only able to recognize 4 flavours, but our noses are able to recognize many thousands of different scents, so before necking the glass straight down, take a moment to breathe in the aromas of your wine and see which scents and therefore flavours are there.

What flavours can I expect?
With a white wine, flavours are often described as being citrus (and according citrus fruits), floral or aromatic whereas a red is complimented for its berries, earthy or woody flavours.

How should I describe a wine?
Describing wine can be done using fairly standard descriptions which we now see used for wines across the world, or by reflecting your own experiences in that of the wine's body and flavour. Wine may be a liquid which we all enjoy drinking but to describe wine well you need to be visual so that person hearing the description can relate that to their own description.
It is easy to say that a white wine is dry and fruity with a crisp finish, but if you are able to add to your description reflecting the hint of grapefruit and the buttery flavour as you swirl the golden liquid around your mouth, then you will automatically gain credibility in the eyes of those you have been speaking to or drinking with.

Final comment
Next time you have a glass of wine in your hand, take a moment to appreciate it. Wine has been produced and enjoyed for thousands of years to become the refined flavour that you are about to enjoy.
Cheers!