The Nose Knows

There's no question that the ability to recognize smells is an asset for any wine drinker, and the aromas of wine are irrefutably a large part of the pleasure wine provides. The question is: Can you develop an ability to perceive aromas?

Yes. All it takes is practice. Fill dark colored wineglasses with different items, one per glass. Generally included are a pat of butter, some peaches, apricots, cherries, strawberry jam, mushrooms, black licorice, ground coffee, pipe tobacco, cocoa, bitter chocolate, a bit of grass, a handful of dirt, butterscotch and so on. Smell what is in each glass while intentionally not looking at the contents. Later, taste a few wines. It's amazing how this aroma practice session helps you become more adept at naming the smells found in wine.