Tasting
How to taste wine: the 5 S’s
To taste wine, follow the 5 S’s: see the colour, swirl the glass, sniff the aroma, sip and let it coat your mouth, then savour the finish.
Wine guides
Wine guides for beginners.
Simple answers to the questions people ask about wine, from Chris Low and the SWAG team.
Etiquette
Wine etiquette at dinners
Hold the glass by the stem, pour about a third full, let the host taste first, and ask questions freely. Good etiquette keeps everyone comfortable.
Pairing
Wine with Malaysian food
Spicy dishes suit off-dry whites like Riesling, while roast meats such as char siew suit soft reds like Merlot. Bordeaux pairs well with many Asian dishes.
What are the 5 S’s of wine tasting?+
See, swirl, sniff, sip and savour. Look at the colour, swirl to release the aroma, smell it, take a sip, then notice how long the flavour lasts.
What is the best wine for beginners?+
Start with easy, fruity wines: a Moscato or Riesling for whites, or a Merlot for reds. Taste a few side by side to learn what you like.
What is the difference between red and white wine?+
Red wine is made with the grape skins, which give it colour and tannin. White wine is usually made without the skins, so it is lighter and fresher.
What should I not do at a wine tasting?+
Avoid strong perfume, don’t fill your glass, and don’t feel you must finish every pour. It’s fine to spit or pour out wine you don’t want.
How do I train my palate for wine?+
Taste wines side by side, smell everyday foods and spices, and write short notes. A guided class speeds this up because you compare wines with an expert.
Learn it hands-on, in one class.
ProVinum Express teaches the basics of wine tasting in 2 hours.