For the initial tasting to check the quality of the wine, pour a small amount (1oz) directly into a glass toward the center, releasing the aromas of the wine. This also helps remove any cork fragments caused by opening. Inspect the cork to see that it is not too dry or crumbling, nor too wet. The wine cork and/or wine may smell “moldy”/”corked”, indicating spoiling.

If the wine is ready for pouring, with the wine glass on the table pour the wine directly into it toward the center, releasing the “bouquet” (unless the wine is sparkling in which case pour against the side of the glass to preserve bubbles). Slightly twist the wine bottle or decanter as you pour to help control dripping. Fill the glass to only about ¼ full this allows room for further aeration by swirling the wine, if desired.