09. Bringing Aromas Back to Center Stage in Wine Tasting and Evaluation

In this episode, we tackle a big question:Do wine aromas really matter, or should we focus solely on taste and structure, like some professionals suggest?Inspired by a candid chat with a winemaker and my experience as a sensory expert, I dive into the debate around wine language—from its cultural quirks to the challenges many of us face in describing aromas.I unpack why aromas are crucial not just for personal enjoyment, but for professional wine evaluation and marketing.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by your ability (or inability) to name what you smell in a glass, this episode is for you. I also share a practical, science-backed framework—the “N.O.S.E.” approach—to help anyone start building a better sense memory and become more confident describing wine aromas.Whether you’re a curious wine enthusiast or a seasoned pro, you’ll walk away with tools to trust your nose and bring even more joy to your wine experiences.If you’d like to access any of the links mentioned in this episode or connect with me, you can see everything in the show notes.I’d love to hear from you if you’ve enjoyed this episode. Feel free to contact me here to share your thoughts or ask a question. À bientôt!Would you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

Om Podcasten

Ready to rethink how you connect with today’s wine lovers? We Taste Wine Differently is the podcast for wine professionals eager to challenge the status quo and create truly unforgettable, people-centric wine experiences.Join host Dr. Isabelle Lesschaeve, a sensory and consumer science expert with over 30 years dedicated to understanding wine perceptions. This podcast serves as a bridge between cutting-edge sensory science and the practical needs of the wine industry.Aired every Wednesday, we deliver actionable, science-backed strategies through a mix of insightful solo episodes, expert interviews, and real-life case studies. Discover how sensory perception and consumer psychology shape preferences, and learn how to leverage this knowledge to guide your portfolio, enhance engagement, and build lasting customer relationships.Whether you're leading a winery, managing a tasting room, or shaping wine hospitality, you'll find practical insights you can implement immediately.Subscribe to We Taste Wine Differently and start transforming your consumers’ wine experience today!