The Art of Tasting Burgundy Wines

Method of judging wine.

Tasting wine is an art that goes beyond simply drinking. It involves engaging all your senses to appreciate the complexity and nuances of the wine. This is particularly true for Burgundy wines, which are renowned for their depth and subtlety. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of wine tasting and help you identify the key flavors and aromas in Burgundy wines.

The Five Steps of Wine Tasting

1. See: The first step in wine tasting is to observe the wine's color and clarity. Pour a small amount of wine into a glass, hold it against a white background, and take a moment to appreciate its color. Burgundy red wines, made from Pinot Noir grapes, range from light ruby to deep garnet, while white wines, made from Chardonnay grapes, can be pale gold to deep yellow.

2. Swirl: Swirling the wine in the glass allows oxygen to interact with the wine, releasing its aromas. It also gives you a chance to observe the wine's viscosity – the 'legs' or 'tears' that run down the side of the glass can give you an indication of the wine's alcohol content and body.

3. Sniff: The next step is to smell the wine. Put your nose into the glass and take a deep breath. Try to identify the different aromas. Burgundy red wines often have notes of red fruits like cherry and raspberry, along with earthy aromas like mushroom and forest floor. White Burgundy wines may have aromas of green apple, citrus, and pear, along with buttery and nutty notes.

4. Sip: Now, take a small sip of the wine. Let it roll around your mouth so it reaches all your taste buds. Try to identify the primary flavors. Is it fruity, earthy, spicy, or floral? Also, consider the wine's structure: its sweetness, acidity, tannin, and alcohol.

5. Savor: The final step is to savor the wine. After swallowing, notice the aftertaste, or 'finish'. A long finish, where the flavors linger in your mouth, is usually a sign of a high-quality wine.

Understanding the Structure of a Wine

The structure of a wine refers to its sweetness, acidity, tannin, and alcohol – the elements that give a wine its texture and mouthfeel.

• Sweetness: Burgundy wines are typically dry, meaning they have little to no residual sugar. However, they often have ripe fruit flavors that can give an impression of sweetness.

• Acidity: Acidity is what makes a wine taste fresh and crisp. Burgundy wines, especially whites, are known for their vibrant acidity.

• Tannin: Tannins are compounds that come from the grape skins, seeds, and stems, and they give a wine its structure and ageability. Red Burgundy wines have moderate tannins, while white Burgundy wines have low tannins.

• Alcohol: The alcohol level in a wine can affect its body and balance. Most Burgundy wines have moderate alcohol levels, typically around 12-14%.

The Role of Age in the Taste of Burgundy Wines

Burgundy wines are known for their ability to age well. As a wine ages, its flavors and aromas can evolve, becoming more complex and integrated. Red Burgundy wines can develop savory, earthy characteristics, while white Burgundy wines can develop rich, nutty flavors. However, not all wines are meant to be aged, and some are best enjoyed while they are young and fresh.

In conclusion, tasting Burgundy wines is a sensory experience that involves careful observation, smell, taste, and aftertaste. By understanding the steps of wine tasting and the structure of a wine, you can fully appreciate the complexity and subtlety of Burgundy wines.