Great wines are like fine art. They’re meant to be appreciated and can even improve with time. For aspiring sommeliers and culinary explorers, the concept of ageing wines is as fascinating as it is enriching. Delving into the intricate process of what makes a wine a timeless vintage is akin to a cultural odyssey – one that combines historical context, scientific principles, and a touch of mystery. But we’ll uncover everything as we go in this (fantastic!) guide.
The Science Behind Ageing Wines
Somebody is said to have aged like a fine wine when they have aged well. We hear it in everyday speech. As wines slumber in bottles, they undergo complex interactions that shape their final taste and aroma. Tannins, a crucial component in the ageing process, gradually bind together, leaving behind a wine that’s softer and more approachable. The slow infusion of oxygen is also essential; it’s a catalyst for the many reactions happening within a bottle. The drinker gets a different experience depending on how long they wait.
Red wines contain more tannins because of the grape skins and stems, so the process is even more pronounced here. White wines, with their lighter, more delicate flavour profiles, can still benefit from ageing, with the increased aromatic complexity and bolstered structure enhancing the overall drinking experience. But the question remains – which wines are worth ageing and which might peak too early or decline over time?
Factors Influencing Wine Ageing
Not every wine ages gracefully though and there are some factors that determine the process, including grape variety, region, and winemaking techniques. Resilient grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese often yield wines built to last, thanks to their high tannin and acidity levels. Wines from regions with reputations for longevity, such as Bordeaux and Barolo, are crafted with ageing in mind and can become extremely complex after many years.
However, the winemaking process itself plays a pivotal role. Techniques like extended maceration and barrel ageing can create wines that are more robust and more predisposed to the ageing process. It’s the balance between these components that vintners must artfully manage to produce a wine that will peak when they intend.
Best Practices for Storing Wines
Giving a wine its best shot at a commendable ageing process isn’t only about time; it’s also about the environment. Proper storage is crucial. Wines should be kept in a dark place with a stable temperature and high humidity to ensure the cork stays moist and doesn’t compromise the wine. For how long should a wine be aged? For this, there’s no easy answer. It’s as much about the wine itself as it is about personal taste. But one thing is certain: when a wine is aged well – like a performance that’s been rehearsed and built up over years – it will sing on your palate like nothing else.
This info is key whether you love a sparkling Sake wine or any other variety!
