Some Basics & The Tastes of The Month

by Jon Fiume
August 15, 2005

This month some wine basics.

As we explore the wine world we must stop a moment and understand a few basic definitions. These basics will begin to provide you with a better understanding of wine and some of its components. As you continue to become familiar with wine you will find yourself recognizing these terms and using them with ease.

Tannins
Tannins are a natural component of the grape skins and seeds. They are mostly found in red wines. The term itself is a highly used to describe the "puckerness" of a wine. Typically you find higher tannin content in the younger red wines. As a wine ages so will the tannins and the pungency will mellow a bit revealing its' true flavors.

Body
The body of a wine is one of its most remarkable components. To describe it simply body gives the wine weight and texture. Think of the body difference between a Cabernet Sauvignon and a White Zinfandel.

Aroma
Aroma is the obvious smell of a wine. This is my favorite component. It is how a wine is described and if you have ever read a winemaker's notes it is amazing what is contained in the aroma from tar to chocolate and peaches to cedar.

Acidity
All wines naturally contain acids that aim to be in balance with fruits and other components. The more acidic a wine is the more tart or sour it will taste.

Finish
Finish is the aftertaste or final taste impression of the wine. A long finish usually indicates a very good wine. A short finish could indicate that you chose the wrong bottle.

Legs
The lines you see running down your wine glass after you swirl it. Many may already know that the heavier or more pronounced the legs are the more alcohol. But this is also the case for the sugar and glycerin content. Plus it is so much fun to do!

Breathing
This is mostly done with red wines to allow them to aerate. This is especially done with fine red wines. You will be amazed at the taste difference in a wine that has been allowed to breathe for awhile. In fact some sommeliers will recommend for some red wines to be allowed to breathe for a few hours before serving. It is also the excuse to own a nice decanter.

Complex
A wine that has many different flavors and components would be considered to be complex. This may be most notable with red wines and you could find yourself enjoying those that are complex more than those that are considered to be simple.

Simple
Simple wines are straight forward with taste and aroma. Mostly found in inexpensive wines. However, even those simple wines can be favorites! Think Two Buck Chuck!

Now that we have that over with, start thinking about these words when you are tasting wine and begin using them when you are discussing wine with your friends. Your appreciation has just increased ten fold! Salute!

This month's featured selections: Napa delights.

St. Supery 2004 Oak Free Chardonnay - $18.00.
Yes there is such a thing as an oak free Chardonnay and this one from Napa is incredible. It is amazing because it does not taste like the Chardonnays that you are accustomed to the reason being is that your actually taste the Chardonnay grape. Besides that, with the absence of the oak, the wine is fermented using a stainless steel process. What you will taste is sweet vanilla, nutmeg, and interestingly enough fresh baked bread! How golden is that? The winemaker states that it is difficult to put it down and it truly is. One down side of this wine is that it will be hard to find. I just ordered my case.

Goosecross 2002 AmerItal Red IV - $36.00.
A very interesting red wine from a small Napa winery. If you ever have a chance to visit this winery it should not be missed. Its quaintness, hospitality, and of course wine itself is unforgettable and will have you sign up for their wine club in no time. This particular vino is a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon 25%, the Amer portion of the name and Sangiovese 75%, the Ital portion. The taste is complex sporting flavors of cherry, plum, licorice, and if you are lucky to find it a little cocoa. You will also find that this wine has a little higher alcohol content of 14.4%. Quite unique, quite delectable, AmerItal complements full bodied meals such as steaks, lamb chops, and stews. It will surely become one of your special favorites! Most likely you will need to order it directly at www.goosecross.com.