The 5 S’s of Wine: A Beginner’s Guide to Tasting
Wine tasting doesn’t have to be complicated, intimidating, or reserved for experts. With a little guidance, anyone can swirl, sniff, and savour like a pro. The 5 S’s of Wine are a simple way to approach tasting, whether you’re at a posh dinner, hosting friends, or enjoying a quiet glass at home.
SEE
Take a good look at what’s in your glass. Hold it up to the light or against a white surface and notice the colour. Is it ruby red, straw yellow, or pale blush? Is it crystal clear, slightly cloudy, or does it have tiny crystals (known as wine diamonds)? These visual clues can tell you a lot about the wine’s age, style, and grape variety.
Tip: Always hold your glass by the stem, as warming wine with your hands can affect both the taste and aromas.
SWIRL
Now, place your glass on a flat surface and give the wine a gentle swirl in a circular motion. You don’t need to go all out and risk spilling, just a few seconds is enough to introduce oxygen and release the aromas. As the wine opens up, you’ll notice how the scents evolve. Swirl occasionally as you taste, and you’ll keep discovering new layers.
SNIFF
Bring your nose to the glass and take a gentle sniff. Did you know our sense of smell is responsible for most of what we perceive as flavour? You might pick up fruits, spices, herbs, or even earthy notes. Compare with friends, as it’s normal for everyone to notice something different.
SIP
Take a real sip, not a dainty tea-party one, but don’t get carried away with the sipping noises either. Keep your mouth slightly open to let in a bit of air, which helps highlight the flavours. Don’t rush to swallow just yet, as the magic happens in the next step.
SAVOUR
Let the wine roll across your tongue, touching all the taste receptors: sweetness at the tip, acidity along the sides, bitterness at the back. Notice the texture, is it light and crisp, or bold and full-bodied?
Tip: This is also the moment for those approving head nods, satisfied “mmm” sounds, and maybe even a few exaggerated impressed eye movements. Don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun!
And the golden rule? Practice
The more wines you try, the more confident you’ll become. Try wines from different regions and styles: bone dry to sweet, red, white, sparkling, rosé, and even orange wines. Each sip teaches you something new, and there truly is a wine for everyone.
Tip: TASTE MORE WINES; PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.
Take Your Tasting Further
The 5 S’s are a brilliant way to begin your wine journey, but nothing beats learning directly from the experts. At our Audacity Wines Experience Room, you’ll discover amazing wines in a relaxed, luxurious setting, guided by passionate hosts who love to share their knowledge.
Whether you’re new to wine, planning a memorable outing with friends, or looking for a unique way to entertain clients or colleagues, our curated tastings are designed to surprise, delight, and inspire. You’ll leave with new favourites, fresh insights, and the confidence to sip, swirl, and savour like a pro.
📍 Discover amazing wines in a luxurious setting, join us in the Experience Room and explore the world of wine, one glass at a time.