SEE View the wine for clarity and color nuances that might hold clues about the wine's age.

SMELL Swirling wine in a large glass exposes more liquid to air, releasing the multitude of aromas.

SIP As you take a small amount of wine in your mouth, it washes across your tongue to cover all your taste buds, revealing flavors as well as weight, balance and texture.

SPIT Wine tasters may choose to swallow or spit the wine, then observe the length of the flavors and finish.