The first time most people try wine, they drink it the same way they would any other beverage. But a few simple steps can make the flavor taste noticeably better.
The good news is that none of these steps are complicated at all. You do not need to be a sommelier to enjoy wine the right way.
Just understand five basics below, and you will notice the difference from your very first sip.
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Steps to Enjoying Wine the Right Way
Every step below directly affects the taste and aroma of the wine in your glass.
From the glass you use, the temperature when served, the way you hold it, to how you take your first taste; everything is connected.
Let us start with the most fundamental one.
1. Choose the Right Glass for Your Wine
Many people do not realize that the shape of a glass can change how wine tastes. The right glass helps the aroma reach your nose more effectively.
Red wine glasses are designed with a wide bowl. This shape gives the wine more room to come into contact with air. That air contact helps red wine release its aromas and soften its tannins.
White wine glasses are smaller and narrower. The goal is to keep the cool temperature longer and focus the aroma as you take a sip.
For sparkling wine, a tall and slim flute glass is the best choice. Its shape keeps the bubbles alive longer inside the glass.
2. Serve Wine at the Right Temperature
Ever felt that a wine tasted flat or too harsh? The issue was most likely the serving temperature.
Wine that is too cold will hide its aromas. On the other hand, wine that is too warm will taste overly alcoholic on the tongue.
Red wine is best enjoyed at 13 to 18 degrees Celsius. You can cool it down in an ice bucket for about 10 minutes before pouring.
White wine needs a lower temperature, around 5 to 9 degrees Celsius.
But do not drink it straight from the fridge. Take it out about 20 minutes beforehand, so the aromas have time to open up.
3. Hold the Wine Glass by Its Stem
This rule might seem trivial, but the way you hold your glass actually matters.
Always hold the glass by the stem, not the bowl.
The reason is simple.
Heat from your palm will raise the wine's temperature too quickly. That temperature change can alter the flavor of the wine you are drinking. Holding the stem also keeps the glass clean from fingerprints.
4. Follow the Proper Tasting Technique
This is where drinking wine gets more exciting.
Before you take a full sip, there are four tasting steps you can try.
• See. Tilt the glass against a white background. Observe the color and clarity. Color can give you clues about the wine's age and character.
• Swirl. Gently rotate the glass on a flat surface. This movement oxidizes the wine and helps release hidden aromas.
• Smell. Bring your nose close to the rim of the glass. Inhale slowly and try to identify aromas of fruit, spice, flowers, or wood.
• Sip. Take a small sip and let the wine spread across your entire tongue. Hold it for a few seconds before swallowing.
After swallowing, pay attention to the aftertaste that lingers in your mouth. Good wine usually leaves a long and layered finish.
5. Pair Wine with the Right Dish
The right pairing between wine and food can enhance the flavors of both. You do not need to follow rigid rules for this step.
• Red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs naturally with red meat and bold sauces.
• White wine like Chardonnay works better with fish, chicken, and cream-based pasta.
• Sparkling wine goes well with salty and fried foods. Dry rosé complements cheese dishes and salads.
• Sweet wine is best paired with desserts that have an equal level of sweetness.
If you are still unsure, do not hesitate to ask the sommelier at the restaurant. They are always happy to help you find the best match.
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Enjoy the Best Wines Only at Cork&Screw
From choosing the right glass, setting the temperature, holding the stem, trying the tasting technique, to pairing wine with food, every step above is something you can put into practice right away.
There is no wrong way to enjoy wine as long as you understand the basics.
Cork&Screw is the right place to start. This wine shop-restaurant concept combines one of Indonesia's largest wine collections with a full dining experience. You can pick a bottle straight from the shelf, enjoy it at the table, or take it home.
The Cork&Screw sommelier team is ready to help you find the wine that matches your taste and occasion. Cork&Screw is available at Plaza Indonesia in Central Jakarta and Pacific Place in South Jakarta.
Visit Cork&Screw and begin your wine journey here.
