Knowing the source of the aromas

Wine club wine tasting

One thing they might be talking about at a wine tasting held by a wine club is the aroma wheel developed by winefolly.com, which classifies aromas (and flavors) according to the point in the winemaking process they come from. Primary aromas come from the variety and terroir of the grape. Most of the possibilities come from this. The categories include citrus, tropical fruit (for some reason, bubblegum is classified here as a tropical fruit), black fruit, spice, earth and a category called “noble rot” which includes beeswax, ginger and honey.

Secondary aromas come from the fermentation process. The secondary, microbial aromas/flavors include mushroom, lager and cream. Tertiary aromas come from the aging process. The categories are general aging and oak aging, and include such classic aromas as cigar box and leather.

Finally, there are the faults. While some wines are considered to be the better for having a touch of farmyard about them, usually these smells diminish the experience — especially the notorious cork taint.

Wine tasting at a vineyard just outside St. Helena

Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards in Napa Valley, a 10-minute drive from downtown St. Helena, holds tastings in its barrel caves, where visitors can sample current releases and library wines and learn about the process of making and storing the wine. Cave tastings are $65, but one tasting fee can be waived by joining their wine club or making a $100 purchase.

Anderson’s wines are sold online and in five locations in Napa Valley, and many other locations nationwide. Join their wine club today and schedule a wine tasting.