Merriam-Webster has a few definitions of the word profile. The first is “a
representation of something in outline” and defines a profile as physical, like
looking at a wine bottle. Another definition states profile to mean “a set of
data often in graphic form portraying the significant features of something”.
This second meaning is what we’re after here at WineMatch.

Wine profiling defined by WineMatch is the process by which major features, or
we prefer the term characteristics, are quantified. This truly only becomes
useful once you understand the “system” on which it is based. WineMatch
worked for years to refine this system, and how it works is quite simple.
WineMatch acquires data from wineries and also acquires data of its own, both
sensory and chemistry. The combination of these different sources of data
work together to paint a more definitive picture of the wine

The profiles we seek are truly the major characteristics of wine. We clearly
define those as AROMA, FRUIT, OAK, ACIDITY, TANNINS, DRY/SWEET,
COMPLEXITY and FINISH, as defined in the WineMatch Wheel ™. These
characteristics are significant in determining if the experience is a favorable
one, based on an individual’s likes and dislikes. Important to note is that
some wines may be entirely absent of certain features, like most white wines
do not have tannins and some do not have oak either. For instance, many
Sauvignon Blanc wines spend their time in stainless steel, so no oak here for
many of them.

How you tell us what you like

The way this is used is also simple. A user adds a wine that we have profiled
to their favorites. Important to note is that we know the characteristics of all
the wines we have profiled. Therefore, adding a wine to your favorites tells
us the characteristics you have found to be favorable. This information will
vary per varietal. As an example, you may like your white wines sweet and
red wines dry.

How we match wines for you

From there, matches are displayed under the MyWine button. You will need
to have created a free user account and be logged in to view matches. It’s
really that simple. Soon, we’ll start e-mailing your matches as we profile new
wines. The more wines we profile, the more matches you will see!