While at the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition, I chatted with one of the pourers about specific types of wine tastings. Both of us were confused on the exact meaning of vertical vs. horizontal tastings. To clarify, I decided to look them up and share the terminology with you.
A horizontal tasting compares wines from the same year but from multiple producers. Usually a boundary is set on the type of grape, region, and wine style. For example, 2001 Zinfandel from Napa Valley or 2006 Chardonnay from Washington state. A horizontal tasting highlights the difference between wine-making styles.
A vertical tasting involves wine from the same producer but from multiple years, for example 2005, 2006, 2007 Pinot Noir from Mark West. A vertical tasting illustrates the difference between vintages.
Participating in both types are a great way to learn about wine. Have you ever engaged in a horizontal or vertical wine tasting? Please share your experience with us below!
Conran
DSquared
V.I.K
Neat! I'd never even heard of that.
1I was thinking that a vertical tasting would be one glass of wine while standing up. A horizontal tasting would be one's position after that third glass.
2Wow, I had no idea there were even two kinds. Thanks!
3My wine club (which is sadly now defunct) was structured along the lines of a horizontal tasting. We set our limits a little more broadly, though. I would love to have more time to do both types - it really is a great way to learn about wines!
4YIPPEE AND YUMMY FOR US WINE LOVERS!! it is all about learning and tasting! so much to indulge in,,,, but FUN!
5Very interesting. Thanks for this!
6I had no idea.
7Never knew that. Thanks for sharing.
Either way sounds like fun to me.
8Post New Comment
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