Part 2: Give it a Swirl
The techinal name for this action in "volatolizing the esters", which sounds a little naughty. Simply put, you are releasing the aromas. Just think, that wine you've just opened has been bottled up for a long time, maybe years! Swirling wine in a glass allows the wine to open up and you can smell the components of the wine more readily. Volatilizing lasts only a few seconds while the wine is being actively mixed with air. Soon after, the wine returns to its prior state revealing less of its qualities and nuances.
Swirling wine without spilling is a skill that requires a little practice. I've heard it compared to hula-hooping... getting in sync and finding the right rhythm. One pointer I can give you for swirling your wine is having the right kind of wine glass- one with a large bowl at the bottom and narrow opening at top is ideal for swirling, and tasting in general. Look for great stemware and fabulous wines to practice with at www.BrightEyesWine.com!
