Wine on the Radio - September 30, 2003      Listen

Balance

Isn't it great when everything kind of comes together?  

Whether it's a party, a good dinner, the way a room is decorated, or even a business deal - when things are in harmony it's just plain better.

Well it's the same with wine.   Balance is an essential attribute of wine.   It means that all of the components, tannins, acids, sugars and alcohol, complement each other.   No single one jumps out at you when you taste.

The result is a taste experience that feels complete from sip to finish.  

Here are the component tastes you may notice:

•  Tannin is astringent like bitter tea.

•  Acidity is like the tartness of lemon juice.

•  Residual sugar is, well, sweet

•  And alcohol can either taste "hot" in your mouth or "sweet" or both.

Individually none are overly interesting.   Together they blend and support each other.   That's why balance is an important characteristic of good wine.