Join us for our famous
Wine Tastings
Indulge in a journey through the world of wine with Woodhouse Wines’ bespoke wine tastings. Tailored to your preferences and curated by our knowledgeable sommelier and wine merchant Jonathan Simpkin, each tasting experience is a delightful exploration of flavours, aromas, and historical stories.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a keen beginner, our bespoke tastings cater to all levels of expertise. From intimate gatherings to corporate events, we offer a range of packages to suit your needs.
Immerse yourself in a carefully selected lineup of wines, thoughtfully paired with artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other seasonal accompaniments. Learn about different grape varietals, regions, and winemaking techniques while savouring each sip in the company of friends, family, or colleagues.
At Woodhouse Wines, we believe that every glass tells a story. Let us create a bespoke tasting experience that will leave a lasting impression on your palate and your guests.
Contact us to plan your unforgettable wine journey.
1. Look
As your trusted wine purveyor, we understand the importance of scrutinising every bottle. When it comes to white wines, we note their initial pale, almost translucent appearance. Yet, with age, this can evolve into a rich, golden hue, as seen in dessert wines like Sauternes and Auslese.
It is also important to keep an eye out for any anomalies, such as a bottle appearing darker within a case, which may signal potential issues like exposure to air or impurities. Similarly, older red wines may exhibit a charming brick red or orange tinge. This does not in fact mean the wine is better or worse, it just indicates the maturity of the wine.
2. Legs
So, what exactly are wine legs? Well, think of them as the wine’s graceful way of showcasing its alcohol content. When you swirl your glass, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind these beautiful, slow-moving droplets. However, don’t let their appearance fool you – they’re simply a natural byproduct of alcohol evaporation, not a measure of excellence.
Wines with higher alcohol levels tend to form more prominent legs, while those with lower alcohol by volume (ABV) may not exhibit this phenomenon at all. Moreover, sweeter wines often boast slower-moving legs, adding an extra touch of allure to your tasting experience.
Despite what you may have heard, wine legs are just another charming quirk of the winemaking process and not a definitive gauge of quality.
3. Smell
At Woodhouse Wines, we encourage you to unlock the full potential of your wine by engaging all your senses. Begin by gently swirling the wine in your glass, allowing its aromas to bloom. Your nose is naturally very sensitive to the smell and will detect many scents. Depending on your wine of choice you may experience the fruity essence of berries and ripe fruits, followed by the layers of wine-making craftsmanship, such as yeast. Finally, you may notice hints of oak or the subtle infusion of vanilla from the cask. Each aroma offers a glimpse into the wine’s character and complexity, enriching your journey of discovery with every sip.
4. Taste
When indulging in a tasting experience, consider taking a mouthful of wine and allowing it to coat your palate, swirling gently as you would with a mouthwash, before swallowing. You might observe some enthusiasts drawing air over the wine, enhancing the sensory experience by activating the nose and intensifying the flavors. Be on the lookout for initial bursts of fruit flavours, followed by creamy textures that may linger towards the back of the mouth.
5. Finish
At Woodhouse Wines, we understand the art of savouring every moment. After swallowing a sip of wine, you may discover lingering flavors that dance on your palate for several seconds. This experience varies greatly with each wine, with some flavours vanishing instantly, prompting another sip, while others persist for a longer duration. For an added layer of enjoyment, try breathing in through your nose after sipping—the subtle act may accentuate the flavours, enhancing your overall tasting experience.