Describes a method for identifying and selecting descriptors which can then be used for drawing up the sensory profile of a product. Describes the different stages in the process for setting up test through which a complete description of the sensory attributes of a product can be obtained: from a qualitative point of view by defining by means of descriptors all the perceptions for distinguishing one product from others of the same type; from a quantitative point of view, by evaluating the intensity of each descriptor. This method can be used to define a production standard; to improve or develop products; to study the influence of the ageing of products and also of the conditions of storage and preservation; to compare a product with those of the same type already on the market.