opening
A wine’s “opening” (which can apply to smell, flavor, or both) is the first impression it gives. Such opening characteristics can change from the first taste to one a few minutes later. For instance, the smell of sulfur on the opening may be entirely indistinguishable on subsequent passes.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.