Does tasting wine with music change a wine's flavor?

Joe - Happy Motoring!

Hi Sue,

Great topic! I think so. I was at a jazz club in Montreal and I think it really enhanced the taste of the Ca Zin (can it really have been as smooth as we thought it was?) we were drinking. One question I have thought of asking in this forum is: Does your mood influence your perception of the wines you are tasting? Music affects mood. Mood can affect perception. Definitely a connection.

My point exactly.

In fact, I'll take it even a step further: Often I have been to tastings where the host/winery/company was just a sheer joy to be around. For the very same reasons I perceived that the wine in my glass was just superb. When I get home and some days later open up another bottle of the same vintage I am often disappointed.


Why is that? Personally, I think it is perception and mood playing tricks on my palate.


Can't explain it.

Just is.

You might as well add “atmosphere” to that Tim.

Salute

In fact, I'll take it even a step further: Often I have been to tastings where the host/winery/company was just a sheer joy to be around. For the very same reasons I perceived that the wine in my glass was just superb. When I get home and some days later open up another bottle of the same vintage I am often disappointed.


Why is that? Personally, I think it is perception and mood playing tricks on my palate.

Can't explain it.

Just is.

Tim,

I have encountered this same phenomenon. I have shared a nice fun but simple sparkler with some friends. I described the wine to them and they really liked it.

Later they had some of the same wine (without my build up) and said it just wasn't quite as good. Anticipation and the power of suggestion can both be powerful enhancers or our enjoyment of a wine.

In fact, I'll take it even a step further: Often I have been to tastings where the host/winery/company was just a sheer joy to be around. For the very same reasons I perceived that the wine in my glass was just superb. When I get home and some days later open up another bottle of the same vintage I am often disappointed.


Why is that? Personally, I think it is perception and mood playing tricks on my palate.

Can't explain it.

Just is.

Tim,

I have encountered this same phenomenon. I have shared a nice fun but simple sparkler with some friends. I described the wine to them and they really liked it.

Later they had some of the same wine (without my build up) and said it just wasn't quite as good. Anticipation and the power of suggestion can both be powerful enhancers or our enjoyment of a wine.

Exactly.


The wine doesn't change but the surroundings/ambiance does.