Whether you’re joining a wine tour in Perth for the first time or just curious about how sommeliers evaluate a glass of wine, learning how to taste wine can transform your entire experience. At Sideways Tours, we believe that wine tasting is not about rules, it’s about discovering, savouring, and connecting with what’s in your glass.
Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to help you taste wine like a sommelier, without the snobbery, and with all the fun.
Step 1
Look – What Does the Wine Tell You?
Before you even smell or taste, take a moment to observe your wine. Hold your glass by the stem (to avoid warming it) and tilt it slightly against a white surface.
- Clarity: Is it clear, hazy, or sparkling?
- Colour: A deep ruby red? A pale straw yellow? Colour can hint at age and grape variety.
- Legs (or “tears”): When you swirl the wine, the drops on the glass give clues about alcohol and sugar content.
Step 2
Smell – The Heart of Wine Tasting
Swirl the wine gently in the glass; this helps release its aromas. Then stick your nose in (yes, all the way), and take a few short sniffs.
Ask yourself:
- Do you smell fruit (berries, citrus, stone fruit)?
- Are there floral notes, like rose or violet?
- Can you sense spice, like pepper or cinnamon?
- Are there earthy tones (leather, mushroom, forest)?
Step 3
Taste – It’s More Than Just “Do I Like It?”
Now take a sip, but don’t swallow right away.
- Let the wine coat your tongue.
- Notice the texture: Is it silky, rough, oily?
- Identify the flavours: Are they consistent with the smell?
- Pay attention to the balance: acidity, sweetness, bitterness, alcohol, tannins.
- Note the finish: How long do the flavours linger after swallowing?
Step 4
Reflect – Build Your Taste Memory
Wine tasting isn’t about finding the “right” answer. It’s about training your taste memory. After each glass, jot down or simply say out loud:
- What did I notice?
- Did I enjoy it? Why or why not?
- Would I drink it again, or with a particular food?
Bonus
Bonus Tips from Our Wine Tour Guides in Perth
- Don’t wear strong perfumes – they interfere with aroma perception.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions at wineries – winemakers love to share.
- Drink water between tastings, and spit if you’re doing multiple stops (yes, it’s perfectly acceptable).
- Keep an open mind – sometimes your favourite wine will surprise you.
Final Thoughts: Wine Tasting Is for Everyone
You don’t need to study wine to enjoy it. You just need to slow down, engage your senses, and give yourself permission to explore.
On our Swan Valley Wine Tours, we take care of the planning, the driving, and the bookings – all you need to do is show up, swirl, sniff, sip, and smile.
Whether you’re looking for a Perth day tour, a private wine tour, or a special moment with friends, Sideways Tours makes wine tasting feel effortless, joyful, and just a little bit magic.
Ready to put your new skills to the test?
Book your wine tasting tour in Perth today and taste like a pro – even if you’re a beginner.