Wine is not just about aromas, grape varieties or terroir; wine is above all a personal experience. For many 'regular' wine lovers, and especially for beginners, a glass of wine is not a technical subject, but a moment of enjoyment, memories and stories.
Text: Ingrid Larmoyeur (The Wine Institute) | Image: Unsplash
In a recent article in English wine magazine Decanter, Dariusz Galasinski explains how wine lovers approach wine in a way that is often completely different from that of professionals. Whereas sommeliers and connoisseurs emphasise tasting notes, vinification methods, balance or aging potential, many enthusiasts experience wine in a much more intuitive way. They talk about what memories the wine evokes, they think about the occasion, the company or the meal combination. It's actually about the individual experience of the wine every time. And when they have to describe a wine, it is not about how the wine tastes, but how someone experiences the wine.
This is a valuable lesson for anyone who wants to make wine more accessible. Instead of highlighting dry facts and 'merely' analysing and describing a wine objectively, sharing individual - yes, even subjective - stories about its origin, its maker or even a personal anecdote can enrich the wine experience. After all, wine is not just a product, but above all a source of emotion and connection.
Whether you have recently become a wine lover or have some experience with wine, one thing is certain: the best wines are often those with a good story. So ask yourself what was your most memorable wine experience.
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