A concise field guide
01 · Typical strength
Usually 11–15% ABV for table wine; fortified wines are often higher.
02 · How it is made
Grapes are harvested, crushed, fermented, clarified, and sometimes matured in steel, concrete, or oak.
03 · Common glassware
A stemmed wine glass with room to swirl; use smaller pours for aromatic or high-strength wines.
04 · First taste
Look, smell, then take a modest sip. Notice acidity, fruit, tannin, body, and length rather than hunting for a ‘correct’ note.