How to recognize wine aromas?
An olfactory Journey to discover the scents of Franciacorta
From the exotic fragrances of Dosage Zèro to the pastry and chamomile notes of Satèn, distinguishing the aromas of a glass of Montina Franciacorta is an art that require sensitivity and practice, this journey allows you to appreciate every nuance of a label, revealing the unique character of wines known for their elegance and complexity.
How can you refine your sense of smell and learn to recognize the different aromas in our Franciacorta wines? Here are a few simple tips to apply.
1. Discover the wine aroma families
The first thing to know is that wine aromas fall into three main categories:
- Primary aromas: derived directly from the grapes, these include fruity notes (apple, lemon), floral hints (acacia, linden) and herbal tones.
- Secondary aromas: linked to fermentation, these include yeast, bready, lactic or spicy notes.
- Tertiary aromas: developed during aging, these aromas tend to be toasted, woody, mineral or reminiscent of ripe and dried fruit. Examples include vanilla, leather and tobacco.
We recommend creating a small aroma kit with common ingredients (lemon, honey, vanilla) to help you become more familiar with these scents.
2. Use the right glass and stay focused
The shape of the glass plays a bigger role than you might think in the olfactory experience. Use tulip-shaped glasses, which direct the aromas toward your nose and always start by gently swirling the wine to release its volatile compounds. It’s better to taste in a neutral environment, free from distractions or external odors.
3. Practice regularly
Like any skill, your sense of smell develops through consistent practice. Set aside time each week for themed tastings, focusing on a specific aroma family, such as fruity or floral wines. The ripe fruit and citrus notes typical of our wines provide a perfect training ground.
- Learn to memorize aromas
Every wine tells a unique olfactory story. To remember aromas more effectively, associate each scent with a personal experience or familiar object. If you detect honey notes in a wine, imagine a cup of tea with honey that you recently enjoyed. This association will make the aroma easier to recognize next time.
- Join guided tasting
Regularly held tastings at our winery offer an excellent opportunity to train your nose. During these experiences, you’ll also have the chance to interact with fellow enthusiasts and refine your sensitivity to different aromas.
Developing your sense of smell takes time and dedication, but it’s a fascinating journey that deepens your appreciation of wine. Whether you’re enjoying a Franciacorta Brut or Rosé Demi Sec, recognizing its aromas means connecting with the passion and history that Montina pours into every bottle.
Ready to start? We look forward to welcoming you for a tasting!