Book A Tour

Author: Jen

Wine Tasting 101

Posted on by Jen

April 27, 2023

wine tasting

Wine Tasting 101

A Guide to Appreciating Niagara Wine

Are you a wine lover who wants to learn how to taste wine like a pro? Wine tasting is the sensory examination of wine, which allows you to appreciate and understand the characteristics of different types of wine. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced wine enthusiast, this guide will provide you with tips on how to taste wine effectively and appreciate all its nuances.

wine tasting wheel

Appearance

The first step to wine tasting is to observe the wine's appearance. Hold the glass up to a light source and check the wine's colour and clarity. A wine's colour can range from pale-yellow to deep purple, and its hue can indicate its type, age, and flavour profile. The wine's clarity should also be considered, as a hazy appearance can indicate a faulty wine.

Aroma

The aroma of wine can reveal a lot about its flavor profile. Swirl the wine around in the glass to release its aroma, then take a sniff. The wine's aroma can be sweet, fruity, floral, or earthy, and can indicate its grape variety, region, and winemaking process. For example, a Chardonnay wine can have a buttery, oaky scent, while a Pinot Noir can have a fruity, spicy aroma.

Taste

The taste of wine is the most important aspect of wine tasting – and our favourite part! Take a small sip and let the wine coat your mouth. Notice the different flavors and textures that you can detect, such as fruit, herbs, and spices. Pay attention to the wine's sweetness, acidity, and tannin levels. Sweetness refers to the wine's sugar content, acidity is the presence of tartness, and tannin is the bitterness that comes from the grape skins

Finish

The finish of wine refers to the aftertaste that lingers in your mouth after you swallow the wine. Notice how long the taste lasts and how it evolves. A long finish can indicate a high-quality wine, while a short finish can indicate a simpler wine.

Types of Wine

There are many different types of wine, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular types of wine include:

  • Chardonnay: a white wine that is typically oaky, buttery, and creamy.
  • Pinot Noir: a red wine that is light-bodied, fruity, and earthy.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: a red wine that is full-bodied, tannic, and complex.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: a white wine that is fruity, herbaceous, and crisp.
  • Merlot: a versatile red wine that is medium-bodied, fruity, and soft.

Common Tasting Terms

Here are some common wine tasting terms that you should be familiar with:

  • Tannin: bitter compounds found in grape skins that give wine a dry sensation in the mouth.
  • Body: the weight and texture of wine on the palate.
  • Acidity: the tartness or sourness in wine that balances the sweetness.
  • Finish: the aftertaste that lingers in the mouth after swallowing.
  • Astringent: a puckering or drying sensation when sipping wine.

Our Tips for Tasting Wine

  • Take small sips to avoid overwhelming your palate.
  • Start with lighter wines before moving on to heavier, more complex wines.
  • Take breaks between tastings to cleanse your palate with water or neutral food, such as bread or crackers.
  • Use a wine tasting sheet to jot down your observations and keep track of your favourites.

Now that you know the basics of wine tasting, it's time to put your newfound knowledge into practice. There are many books, online courses, and wine tasting events that can help you deepen your understanding and appreciation of wine but there is nothing like getting out to Niagara Wineries to experience it firsthand!  Book a tour with us and explore the world of wine tasting today!

BOOK YOUR TRIP

Best Wine Varietals

Posted on by Jen

April 21, 2023

sniffing wine

Best Wine Varietals

Welcome to Niagara, a region that is well-known for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and vast vineyards. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy indulging in a glass or two, Niagara is a region that should be on your bucket list. The diversity and quality of the wine varieties found in Niagara make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. In this blog post, we will be exploring some of the best wine varietals that you can find in the Niagara region.

wine vineyards

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is a light-bodied and delicate wine that thrives in the colder climate of the Niagara region. This wine features a unique combination of fruit, acidity, and earthiness, making it highly sought after by wine lovers. Pinot Noir pairs perfectly with salmon dishes, mushroom risottos, and light meats.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a popular wine variety found in the Niagara region. The grape thrives in the Niagara climate, and winemakers have taken advantage of this by consistently producing stunning and elegant Chardonnays. The wine is typically aged in oak barrels, which give it a buttery and creamy taste. Chardonnay pairs well with chicken, fish, and creamy pastas.

Merlot

Merlot is a velvety wine variety that flourishes in the Niagara region. The wine features a rich, smooth texture with a balanced blend of fruit and oak. The grape is often blended with other red varieties to create complex and unique blends. Merlot pairs perfectly with dark meats, venison, and sharp cheeses.

Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a bold, spicy wine that is well-suited for the Niagara region’s cooler climate. The grapes are grown on the north-facing slopes of the Niagara Escarpment, which provides a unique terroir, making for a complex and balanced wine. Cabernet Franc pairs well with red meats, game, and chocolate.

Baco Noir

Baco Noir quickly became one of North America’s most successful hybrids. Introduced in 1955, it is now one of Ontario’s most grown grapes. Its ability to survive harsh winters makes it the perfect fit for Ontario’s unpredictable climate. Its resistance makes it a friendly alternative to growing Pinot Noir.

It is a flavourful grape that creates big, earthy wines because of its flavour profile, which includes notes of leather, currants, and spice.

Ice Wine

Ice Wine is a rare and unique wine variety that is made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, typically harvested in the early morning hours after sub-zero temperatures. These conditions help to develop a sweet, luscious, and concentrated taste that is unrivaled by any other wine. Ice wine is often enjoyed as a dessert wine, and it pairs perfectly with decadent chocolate desserts, robust blue cheeses, or fruit tarts.

The Niagara region is a wine lover's paradise. With so many varietals to choose from, it’s no wonder that the region attracts wine lovers from all over the world. From bold reds to crisp whites, the region offers a diverse selection of wine that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Niagara and experience the best wine varietals that the region has to offer.

BOOK YOUR TRIP