Have you ever felt that a red wine was missing something? Perhaps you have a bold Amarone or an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon in your glass, but you want to enhance and deepen its aromas even further.
A simple yet surprising trick is to use spices. Certain spices can highlight the wine’s natural flavors and create a more complex and enjoyable tasting experience.
Three Spices That Can Enhance Red Wine Aromas:
* Cinnamon – A subtle hint of cinnamon can bring out the warm, spicy notes in full-bodied red wines such as Syrah, Malbec, or Zinfandel. Try smelling a bit of cinnamon while sipping your wine—you'll notice how it enhances the oak-aged and fruity nuances.
* Rosemary – This aromatic herb complements the earthy and herbal notes found in wines like Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Rioja. Place a small sprig of rosemary near your glass or rub it lightly between your fingers before taking a sip to experience how it interacts with the wine’s flavors.
* Star Anise – If your wine has hints of dark berries, licorice, or clove, star anise can be an exciting addition. It pairs well with powerful wines such as Amarone, Primitivo, or Shiraz, enhancing their deep, spicy, and fruity notes.
A great way to experiment with this is to place a small amount of the spice next to your glass and smell it while tasting your wine. This allows you to discover which flavors and aromas blend best with your favorite wines.
Try it for yourself and find your perfect combination.
