What is a flight of wine?

A wine flight are not those small plastic bottles of wine you get on an aeroplane, but instead are a number of wines, typically 3,4 or 6, that are themed by grape, country, terroir or vintage for the purposes of comparison against one another.

Wine flights are typically used in wine education, wine tastings or wine tours around wineries to extol the virtues of the vintners production. They are usually small pours of wine for the express purpose of comparison and can sometimes be used in gastronomic degustation menus at top restaurants too.

Wine flights explained

If you’ve ever been out to a restaurant or a wine bar, you’ve likely seen something called a “flight of wine”. But, what is a flight of wine and why is it so popular? A flight of wine is a selection of wines that are served together in one sitting. Typically, the selection of wines will be from the same winemaker, winery, or even vineyard. The wines are usually served in small glasses, and arranged in a specific order to be tasted. This allows the drinker to compare and contrast the different wines and gain a better appreciation for them.

When ordering a flight of wine, you can usually expect to be served anywhere from three to eight glasses of wine. The amount of glasses can vary depending on the restaurant or wine bar you’re in. Generally, the more glasses you get in a flight, the better the value. When it comes to what type of wines are served in a flight, it really depends on the establishment. Some places might offer a flight of all red wines, all white wines, or a combination of both. Other places might offer flights of similar varietals from different regions. For example, a flight of Pinot Noir from California, Oregon, and New Zealand.

Flights of wine are becoming increasingly popular among wine drinkers. This is because they allow people to sample different wines without having to commit to a full bottle. It’s also a great way to discover new wines and learn more about them. If you’re a wine lover and want to try something new, be sure to ask your local restaurant or wine bar if they offer flights of wine. It’s a great way to explore different wines and discover something new.

Are Wine Flights expensive?

On the contrary, if you see a wine flight grab for it with gusto as wine flights offer smaller pours of a range of wines across a chosen comparison. If you're a wine lover that enjoys variation then a wine flight is great value, however, if you're someone who values wine by the sheer amount of ml in the glass, then they would be more expensive than the same volume of wine from one bottle.

Wine Flights by Grape Varietal

When it comes to wine flights, one of the most popular focus is grape variety. This is a great way to learn more about the different characteristics of various grapes, allowing you to find new favourites and understand why certain wines are so highly regarded.

Let's start with one of the most popular white grape varieties: Chardonnay. Chardonnay can be found in a range of styles from oak-aged and buttery, to light and crisp. It is also grown in a variety of regions, from France to California, and each region has its own unique expression of the grape. A great way to explore the range of Chardonnay is to try a flight of four or five different Chardonnays from different regions. This will allow you to taste the nuances of the terroir and discover which style you prefer.

Another popular white grape variety is Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp and refreshing wine, with flavors of citrus, green apple, and herbs. It is also grown in a variety of regions, from its home in Bordeaux, to the Marlborough region of New Zealand. A great way to explore Sauvignon Blanc is to try a flight of wines from different regions, as the terroir can have a big impact on the flavor of the wine.

When it comes to red wines, one of the most popular grape varieties is Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold flavors of dark fruits, subtle tannins, and notes of oak and spice. It is grown in a variety of regions, from California to France, and each region has its own unique expression of the grape. A great way to explore the range of Cabernet Sauvignon is to try a flight of four or five different Cabernets from different regions. This will allow you to taste the nuances of the terroir and discover which style you prefer.

Finally, let’s explore the world of Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine, with flavors of cherries, raspberries, and earthy notes. It is grown in a variety of regions, from its home in Burgundy, to Willamette Valley in Oregon. A great way to explore Pinot Noir is to try a flight of wines from different regions, as the terroir can have a big impact on the flavor of the wine. Exploring wine flights by grape variety is a great way to learn more about the many wonderful wines of the world. Whether you are looking to explore Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir, there is a wine flight for you. So grab a few bottles and start your own exploration today!

Wine Flights by Vintage

Wine flights by vintage are an ideal way to explore the nuances of what each vintage has to offer. Whether you’re an experienced wine connoisseur or a novice looking to broaden your knowledge and appreciation of wine, a vintage-themed flight can be an educational and enjoyable experience.

A vintage wine flight typically consists of four to six wines, each from a different vintage. The wines are usually grouped together by the same type of grape or blend, and the goal is to taste and compare the differences between the various vintages. This experience can provide insights into how climate and weather conditions, as well as the winemaker’s skill and technique, can affect the flavour and structure of a wine.

When selecting wines for a flight by vintage, it’s important to consider the winery and the region in which the grapes were grown. Climate conditions can vary significantly from year to year, so selecting wines from different vintages from the same winery and region can help to illustrate these differences.

The next step is to choose the wines for the flight. If you’re looking for a more educational experience, you may want to select wines from different vintages that were produced in contrasting climates. For example, you could compare a cool-climate vintage from a cooler year with a warmer vintage from a warmer year. This can help to illustrate the ways in which the climate can affect the flavour, structure, and body of a wine.

Once you’ve selected your wines, it’s time to start tasting! Begin by pouring a small amount of each wine into individual glasses and get ready to explore. Be sure to take note of the aromas, flavours, and texture of each wine, and compare the differences between the various vintages. If you’re tasting with a group, you can even have a friendly competition to see who can identify the most differences between the wines.

A vintage-themed wine flight is an excellent way to learn more about wine and hone your tasting skills. Whether you’re a novice looking to gain a better understanding of how climate and winemaker decisions can affect a wine’s flavour, or a seasoned connoisseur looking to explore how different vintages of the same type of wine can differ, a vintage-themed flight is an enjoyable and educational experience.

Wine Flights to Pair with Food

A common practise for multi-course tasting menus, wine flights with food are designed to show off complimentary flavours and aromas, tastes and textures between foo and wine.

Some wines pair well with specific dishes, so it’s important to do your research and find out what wines pair best with the food that you’re serving. One great way to explore the many different wines that are available is to create a wine flight. A wine flight is a group of three or more different wines that are served together. It’s a great way to explore the complexity of different wines and to find the perfect match for a particular dish.

When creating a wine flight, it’s important to select wines that will work together in terms of flavour and aroma. You don’t want to have wines that are too similar, as this will make it difficult to distinguish between them. You also don’t want to have wines that are too different, as this can make it difficult to find the perfect pairing. When it comes to pairing a wine flight with food, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, you want to look for wines that have complementary flavours. For example, if you’re serving a creamy dish, you might want to pair it with a Chardonnay or a Riesling. If you’re serving a dish with more acidic flavours, you might want to pair it with a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. You also want to consider the body of the wine. If your dish is light, you might want to pair it with a light-bodied white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc. If your dish is heavier, you might want to pair it with a medium-bodied red such as a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Finally, you want to consider the sweetness of the wine. If you’re serving a sweet dish, you might want to pair it with a sweeter wine such as a Moscato or a Riesling. If your dish is savoury, you might want to pair it with a dry wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Pinot Noir. When you pair a wine flight with food, it can truly bring out the best in both. Each wine will bring out different flavours and aromas, allowing you to explore the complexity of the dishes that you’re serving. With a little bit of research and experimentation, you can create the perfect wine flight for any occasion.

Wine Flights by Vineyard Parcel (lieu-dit)

When it comes to exploring the nuances of a vineyard, there's nothing quite like a wine flight. A wine flight is a selection of wines from a specific region, grape variety, or even vineyard parcel. The idea is to explore and compare the various nuances of each wine through a series of side-by-side tastings. It’s a great way to explore the differences between terroirs and vintages, as well as to get a good overview of a certain region or vineyard.

A vineyard parcel wine flight, though, is an even more specific exploration. You’ll be tasting wines from the same vineyard, but from different areas or plots within that vineyard. This allows you to get a better sense of the nuances of the land and how it affects the final product. Different parcels can vary in soil composition, climate, and even slope, all of which can have a huge impact on the resulting wine. When setting up a vineyard parcel wine flight, it’s important to choose the right wines. Try to pick wines that are similar in terms of grape variety, vintage, and winemaking style. This will allow you to get a better sense of the differences between the parcels. You may want to start with a larger selection, then narrow it down to a few that you feel best represent the vineyard.

When tasting a vineyard parcel wine flight, it’s important to pay attention to the nuances of each wine. Take notes on the colour and aromas, as well as the tannins and acidity. You should also take note of how the wines evolve over time. The different parcels will likely have a different impact on the aging process and it’s important to be aware of how they change over time. Finally, remember to enjoy the experience. Exploring the nuances of a vineyard through a wine flight is a great way to get to know a region and its terroir. Take your time and savour the nuances of each wine. And be sure to share your findings with friends and family.

So if you’re looking for a unique way to explore a region and its wines, a vineyard parcel wine flight may be just what you need. Take your time, savour the nuances of each wine, and be sure to take good notes. In the end, you’ll have a much better understanding of the impact the land and soil have on the resulting product.

Wine Flights by Appellation?

Wine flights by appellation are an increasingly popular way to sample a variety of wines from a specific region or winery. A flight typically consists of four to six glasses of wine, each showcasing a different appellation. The idea is to compare and contrast the different flavours, aromas, and styles of the wines to discover the unique characteristics of the region.

To start, let’s define what an appellation is. An appellation is a defined geographical area where grapes are grown and wines are produced. It is defined by the laws of the country or region in which it is located. Appellations are often divided into sub-regions, as well, to further define the characteristics of the wines produced in that area. Appellations are a helpful way to classify wines and offer a sense of place for the wines. Now, let’s discuss the benefits of a wine flight by appellation.

A wine flight by appellation allows the drinker to experience the unique characteristics of each wine in the flight. The different appellations will typically showcase different styles, aromas, and flavours of the region. This allows the drinker to gain a better understanding of the nuances of the region, while also enjoying the variety of wines. Wine flights by appellation are a great way to explore a region’s wines. The flights typically consist of wines of similar price points, allowing the drinker to get a sense of the region without breaking the bank.

For example, a flight of wines from the Bordeaux region could include a mix of wines from the Left and Right Banks, as well as from St. Emilion, Pomerol, and more. This type of flight offers a great opportunity to try a variety of wines without having to invest in a full bottle of each. When planning a wine flight by appellation, there are a few things to consider.

First, it’s important to choose wines that represent the region in a balanced way. This means selecting wines that have similar grape varieties, alcohol levels, and aging styles. This will ensure a consistent experience throughout the flight. It’s also important to consider the order in which you taste the wines. Consider starting with the lighter wines and progressing to the fuller-bodied ones, to allow the drinker to experience the range of flavours and aromas that the region has to offer.

Finally, when planning a wine flight by appellation, it’s important to consider the occasion. A flight of Champagnes may be fitting for a special occasion, whereas a flight of wines from a particular region may be more appropriate for a casual gathering. Wine flights by appellation are an exciting way to explore the nuances of a region. They offer a great opportunity to compare and contrast the styles, aromas, and flavours of the wines, and discover the unique characteristics of the region. With careful planning and consideration of the occasion, a wine flight by appellation can be a great way to enjoy a variety of wines and gain a better understanding of the region.

Wine Flights by Producer

When it comes to tasting wine flights by producer, there are a few key points to keep in mind. First, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the producer’s style and what kind of wines they make. This will help you to determine which wines to include in the flight and how to properly evaluate them. It’s also important to consider the vintage, as older vintages can often be more complex and interesting.

Once you’ve determined the type of wine you’re tasting, it’s time to choose the wines for the flight. Depending on the producer, you may want to stick to one variety or region or explore a range of different wines. When selecting wines, it’s important to consider how they will interact with each other and how they will best show off the producer’s style. When it’s time to taste the wines, it’s important to be mindful of the different aromas, flavours and textures. Make sure to use proper tasting techniques, such as swirling the glass, smelling the wine and taking small sips. As you taste each wine, make sure to take notes on your impressions so you can compare them at the end.

Finally, when you’ve finished tasting the wines, it’s time to compare your notes and draw your conclusions. This is where you can really appreciate the producer’s skill in creating a range of enjoyable wines. You may even discover a new favourite that you want to explore further. Overall, wine flights by producer can be a great way to learn more about the wines you love and discover new favourites. With a little bit of research, preparation and tasting, you can truly appreciate the producer’s skill and range. 

Where can I enjoy a Wine Flight?

Most wine bars and wine themed restaurants offer wine flights or at least wine flight tasting evenings. These wine events may be monetised but very often are free in the hope that you may be impressed by some of the wines you've tried and decide to purchase some bottles yourself.