A wine made to be opened immediately, as 95% of wines are today, will lose its fruit character and brightness if it’s declared too long. Wines made to age, such as heavy reds, can be unpleasant to drink young because of relatively high levels of acid and tannin.
Not all wine varieties age at the same pace and varying conditions at production or storing can greatly influence the aging process. A red wine from a quality vineyard will have the requisite composition of full-bodied, flavor, high tannins, and acidity to allow it to mature gracefully with age. These wines not only cellar the best but benefit from aging in order to soften and fully develop their flavor and character.
Over time the tartness of the acidity in all wine decreases, and if the wine begins with low acidity, the wine will eventually result in flat and dull tastes. Higher acidity ensures the wine will have a “longer runway”. Wine is dynamic and ever changing. Acids, alcohols and a plethora of other compounds dissolve, only to combine again into more complex combinations creating complexities and flavors. It is like a living creature and every time you open a bottle, the wine is at another stage of its evolution with new and distinct nuances.
Characteristics of Well-Aging Wine
Red Wines Age Better than White Wine
Generally, lighter wines with bright flavors are most suited to being enjoyed young, usually within one to two years.
Wines with Higher Acidity
The acidity will soften over time so choosing a wine that can afford to settle down without losing its structure is key.
Higher in Tannins
Tannins, the aspect that gives a wine its astringency and texture, will also mellow, so you want a wine robust enough that won’t lose its character.
Quality Vineyard and Winery
Fine wines from a renowned vintner using high-quality grapes can be expected to hold its character longer than inexpensive and lower quality wines.
Alcohol Content
Wines with a higher % of alcohol typically can be stored longer.
Price
If the wine is inexpensive, the winemaker typically intends the wine to be drunk soon after purchasing.
Preservatives
Different winemakers include varying amounts of preservatives such as sulfites which affect the aging of wine.
Properly Stored
It is important to note that how wine is stored can significantly influence the results of aging wine.
Tips for storing wines:
- Keep the bottles away from light or sunlight
- Keep the temperature of the wine consistent
- Keep the wine cool but not cold
- Watch the humidity. 70 to 90% relative
- Store bottles on their side
- Store bottles in an area where there’s little vibration
