Things I Have Learned as a Novice Taster

1. It’s alright to not like a wine, not everyone likes the same thing.
2. No, you don’t have to drink all of each pour.  It’s ok to use the dump bucket.
3. If you don’t try it, you won’t know if you like it.  Don’t be stuck on,” I only drink…”
4. To have the best experience you can, ask how to correctly swirl, smell, and taste the wine if you are unsure of how to do this.
5. Realize it takes a long time to develop the ability to pick up on aromas and flavors in wine.  Practice, practice, practice!
6. Understand that not everyone will always smell and taste the same things.
7. It’s ok to ask lots of questions.
8. The purpose of a tasting is to learn about the wine and vineyard, not to get drunk.
9. Drink water and eat snacks during the tasting, it helps with the getting drunk part.
10. Don’t expect all wineries to have food. Many do have food offerings and thats a bonus, but their main focus is their wines.