When it comes to the eternal question of whether to try red or white wine first, there are a few key factors to consider. Let’s take a closer look at these factors and determine which wine you should reach for when starting your wine-tasting journey.
1. General Wine Progression
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the general progression for serving and tasting wine. The general rule of thumb is to start with lighter-bodied wines before moving on to fuller-bodied ones. This is because lighter wines tend to have lower tannin levels and a more delicate flavor profile, which can be easily overwhelmed by the intensity of a heavy red wine.
2. Whites before Reds
Following the general progression, it is recommended to try white wines before reds. This is because white wines generally have a crisper and more refreshing character, making them a great choice to awaken your palate and prepare it for more intense flavors. By starting with a white wine, you allow yourself to fully appreciate its nuances without any interference from bolder red wines.
3. Light Body before Full Body
Within each wine color category, there is also a progression based on body. Light-bodied wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, are typically lower in alcohol and have a more delicate mouthfeel. Trying these wines first allows you to experience their subtle flavors and appreciate their crispness before moving on to more robust and full-bodied options like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.
4. Young Vintages before Old
Another consideration is the age of the wine. In general, it is suggested to try younger vintages before older ones. Younger wines tend to be more vibrant and fruit-forward, while older wines develop complex flavors and aromas over time. Starting with a young wine allows you to experience its primary characteristics and build a foundation before exploring the depth and complexity that aged wines offer.
5. Dry before Sweet
When choosing between different styles of wine, it is advisable to begin with dry wines before moving on to sweeter options. Dry wines have minimal residual sugar and tend to be more acidic, which can help cleanse the palate and prepare it for the sweetness to come. By starting with a dry wine, you avoid potentially overwhelming your taste buds with sugar and ensure a more balanced tasting experience.
6. Fragrant Whites before Oaky Whites
Within the realm of white wines, there is yet another consideration – the level of oakiness. If you have the opportunity to taste both fragrant white wines, like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, and oaky white wines, such as Chardonnay, it is recommended to begin with the fragrant ones. Fragrant whites typically have pronounced aromatics and can provide a delightful sensory experience before transitioning to the buttery richness of oaky white wines.
Conclusion
So, should you try red or white wine first? Based on the general progression for serving and tasting wine, it is advisable to start with a white wine. By doing so, you can gradually introduce your palate to the delights of wine, beginning with lighter-bodied options and slowly working your way up to more intense and complex flavors. Remember to follow the guidelines of trying younger vintages before older ones, dry wines before sweet ones, and fragrant whites before oaky whites. Ultimately, the most important thing is to have fun exploring and discovering the wide world of wine!
