Wine tasting at the age of 19: The beginning of my wine journey
Wine Tasting / By Molly Chen / I remember my first encounter with wine when I was about 19 years old. At the time, I was at university and curious about everything around me. A friend invited me to a wine tasting to broaden my horizons and deepen my knowledge. Although I knew nothing about wine, I went with the intention of exploring everything.
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My encounter with wine and my first wine tasting
As I entered the tasting room, I was drawn to the wide variety of wine bottles that stood before me. Colorful bottles, attractive labels and enticing aromas. The host patiently introduced us to the characteristics of the different regions and wines and let us taste them one by one. I carefully picked up the glass and took a sip and was immediately impressed by the rich aroma and smooth taste. It was very different from the beers and spirits I had drunk before and I could feel the unique charm of the wine.
After this experience, I became very interested in wine. I started to learn more about its history, the production process and the characteristics of each country and region. I realized that there are so many different types of wines, each with its own story. Some are simple and refreshing, others are complex and full-bodied, and all are unforgettable. I grew to like this way of exploring the world through wine tasting.
Molly Chen thinks about the taste of wine.
The process of learning about wine
In order to understand wine better, I began to study it systematically. I bought some introductory wine books, such as "Wine Primer" and "World Wine Map", and read them over and over again. I learned how to taste wines properly, from observing the color of the wine to smelling the aroma and tasting the flavor, and developed my sensory skills step by step.
In practice, I then developed my own tasting methods. I carefully observed the appearance of the wine to feel its texture and luster, then sniffed deeply to grasp the different aromas, and finally tasted it slowly to enjoy its acidity, tannins, aftertaste and other characteristics. Through repeated tastings, I gradually developed my own wine tasting habits and preferences.
Active wine tasting
In addition to theoretical knowledge, I also actively participated in various wine tastings to gain more practical experience. Sometimes I took part in private tastings with friends, and sometimes I attended tastings organized by merchants or wineries. At each event, I listened carefully to the lecturer's introduction and exchanged ideas with other tasters. During the tasting, I carefully noted my feelings and tried to better understand the characteristics of each wine.
Over time, my knowledge of wine became more extensive and my tasting skills improved. I began to recognize the characteristics of the different grape varieties and appellations and to judge the quality of a wine more accurately. Sometimes my friends would come up to me and ask me questions about wine, and I was happy to share my findings with them.
The path to collecting wine
As my love of wine grew, I began to build up my own wine collection. At first, I only bought a few favorite wines sporadically and slowly built up my collection. Later, I started going to auctions or contacting wineries to acquire rare wines.
I have also developed my own tastes and preferences for my collection. I like wines that have matured for a long time and have been vinified with great care, and they always give me a unique feeling of depth and richness. Sometimes I also try new wine regions to experience their innovative spirit. Different wines have their own charm in my eyes.
To preserve my wine collection, I bought a wine cabinet with constant temperature and humidity. I carefully select the right storage conditions to ensure that the wines age well and bring out their best qualities. When I open the cabinet and look at the neatly organized bottles, I feel a sense of satisfaction.
From time to time, I invite wine lovers to my home for tastings. We get together, taste old wines that have been in our possession for many years, exchange tasting tips, enjoy delicious food and are always amazed at the aromas of the wines. It is one of my greatest joys to share this love of wine with like-minded people.
Wine and my life
Wine has become an integral part of my life. Whether in my free time at work or with my family and friends, I always choose the right wine to go with it.
When I'm not working, I sometimes enjoy a glass or two of wine on my own, savoring its unique charm and relaxing my mind. Every sip brings me a new feeling and makes me forget all my worries. Sometimes I share my favorite wines with my friends and discuss the tasting experience with them.
When I get together with friends and family, I carefully select the right wines to match the characteristics of the dishes. I like to share my careful selection with everyone at the table and introduce the characteristics of each wine. It's always a good opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine and have a good conversation. I find that wine is not only a great taste experience, but also a great way to connect with people.
I also apply my experience of wine tasting to cooking. I use the characteristics of the different wines to create dishes that complement the food and the wine. Sometimes I invite my friends over
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