Chapter 08 · 14 min read · 4 sections

The Art of Tasting

Ink and burgundy engraving of the Systematic Approach to Tasting — a filled wine glass at centre, a woman nosing a glass, grapevine and vineyard, oak barrel and bottle, aroma ingredients, and an open book titled The SAT Approach listing See, Smell, Taste and Judge

The Idea

Every wine tells a story, and the purpose of tasting is to learn how to read it. Colour offers clues about age and style. Aromas reveal information about grape variety, climate and winemaking. Structure helps us understand quality and balance. The WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT) provides a common language for describing wine. Rather than relying on personal opinion, it encourages careful observation and clear communication. Tasting is not about deciding whether you like a wine — it is about understanding what is in the glass.