Wine on the Radio - May 27, 2004

Breathing

People get confused by different wine rituals and breathing is one of them.

 

Well, here's our take - breathing adds to the experience. It can help unlock the wine's aroma and flavor after being cooped up in that bottle.

Aroma is key because much of what we taste is due to what we smell. And it's the same for red or white wine.

Try this with your favorite wine . . . open it and pour a sip. Give it a swirl then smell it. Take a sip and note how it tastes to you. Pour another sip then walk away for a half hour.

When the time's up swirl, smell and sip again. Notice any difference? Chances are you will. Letting the air at the wine releases more aromas and it may taste a bit fuller too with a more lingering taste sensation.

To breathe or not to breathe is a good wine question . . .

Give it a try and decide how you like to answer it.

Pop the cork™.

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