Ask the Expert: I’m invited to a wine tasting party... What are the basics that I should know?

Wine tasting can feel rather intimidating, especially if you’re stepping into the world of swirling glasses and oaky aromas for the first time. From complicated jargon like “tannins” and “lengths” to the right and wrong way of holding your glass, it is completely understandable to feel confused. 

In this edition of Ask the Expert, we turn to Charlie Rudd, regional manager for South-east Asia at Berry Bros & Rudd, a British wine and spirits merchant founded over three centuries ago. With a few basic etiquette tips and an understanding of fundamental wine tasting terms, you’ll be ready to navigate the expansive spectrum of flavours and aromas in no time.

Basic terms to know

Although there is an extensive vocabulary associated with the world of wine, it’s essential to know some key tasting terms to fully understand and appreciate it. 

Sweetness: This is the initial sugary taste detected at the tip of the tongue, derived from the residual sugar in ripe grapes left after fermentation is complete. 

Acidity: The citric tang felt on the sides of the tongue, more noticeable in white wines than in red wines. 

Tannins: Detected at the back of the tongue with a slight bitterness, tannins are primarily found in red wines. They can also create a drying sensation on the gums, a result of the grape skins and oak ageing process. 

Alcohol: Felt at the back of the throat, it produces a warm sensation after swallowing. Generally, higher sugar levels in the wine result in higher alcohol content. 

Length: The duration of the wine’s lingering taste after swallowing – the longer the length, the higher the perceived quality. 

Body: The weight and fullness of the wine on the palate. 

Balance: The harmonious blending of all the aforementioned wine components. A balanced wine is a hallmark of quality. 

Describing wines

Wines are often described by their appearance, aroma and taste. When poured into a glass, observe the colour: White wines can range from pale white to lemon or golden hues; red wines typically vary from shades of purple to ruby or tawny; and rose wines exhibit a spectrum of pink to orange tones. 

Next, focus on the aroma by sniffing the glass and identifying the primary scents. The top aroma notes are generally fruity for younger wines, and spicy or savoury for older varieties. 

Finally, describing taste involves many of the terms mentioned earlier. Sweetness, which depends on the sugar content, can range from dry to medium to sweet.

When sipping, take note of how pronounced the acidity and tannins are, whether in white or red wines. Then, determine if the wine is light, medium or full-bodied based on how it sits on the palate, and whether it has a shorter or longer finish. 

For example, a modern Bordeaux may have a deep ruby hue with a fruity aroma of ripe blackcurrants and cherries. The flavour profile might be full-bodied, with minimal acidity and well-integrated tannins, resulting in a harmoniously balanced wine with a long, elegant finish that lingers beautifully on the palate.

Wine-tasting etiquette

One key factor is serving wines at the correct temperature. Whites and sparkling wines should be well-chilled in advance, as it’s much easier to let a wine gradually warm to room temperature than to chill it quickly. 

This advice applies to reds as well; while they don’t need refrigeration, they should be served slightly chilled. Avoid gum, mint and other strongly flavoured foods that could overwhelm your palate before tasting the wines. 

Also, avoid holding wine glasses by the bowl – they should be held by the stem to prevent warming the wine with your hands. It’s generally recommended to begin with lighter wines and gradually progress to heavier ones. 

This typically involves starting with sparkling or white wines, moving on to lighter-bodied varieties, and finishing with full-bodied reds. This approach prevents heavier wines from overwhelming the palate too soon.

Is good wine expensive?

While some high-priced wines offer exceptional quality, there’s a common misconception that good wine must be expensive. In reality, many affordable options deliver remarkable flavours and craftsmanship without the hefty price tag.

Wines from lesser-known regions or appellations, such as the Loire Valley, Spain, or England, often provide fantastic quality at a fraction of the cost compared to products from Bordeaux or Napa Valley.

The wine trends of 2025

Access to new wine regions and the “New World” of wine has expanded, driven by climate change and consumers seeking value beyond the traditional regions of Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne. The Loire Valley, grower Champagne, and cool-climate Pinot Noir offer early-stage opportunities for savvy consumers as demand rises and their commercial channels expand into global markets.

For now, these regions provide exceptional value compared to their more recognised counterparts, alongside growing recognition of producers’ efforts in addressing climate challenges and adopting sustainable practices—both in resource management and evolving winemaking styles.

Consumers are increasingly seeking education and guidance to “buy better” and stay ahead of the market, identifying emerging wine regions before broader demand drives up prices.

Charlie Rudd is a fourth-generation member of Berry Bros & Rudd, a British wine and spirits merchant established 326 years ago. Visit bbr.sg for more information.