When I began my journey into the wine world, I was fascinated by the idea of an aging bottle. I thought every old wine hid a shocking experience. But reality is more complicated. The aging of wine is an art that depends on many factors. What wines improve with time? How can one understand whether a wine is suitable for aging? CORVERSE Let us see everything you need to know to enjoy your wine to the fullest. What is aging and how does it work? First, let us clarify that aging is done solely in the bottle. Instead, the process of storage in barrels, tanks or amphorae is called maturation. In both cases, however, wine develops new aromas, flavors and texture. Factors such as: ADVERSION The variety of grapes The way of vinification Storage conditions determine the quality and success of aging. For example, a red wine with high acidity and tannins, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, has a better chance of developing pleasantly with time, as opposed to a light white wine. What wines improve with aging? No, all wines are not made to age. The best for aging are: Wines with high acidity Wines with concentrated fruity aromas Wines with strong tannins Wines with high alcohol (more than 13%) Examples: Bordeaux, Barolo Xinomavro, Assyrtiko, Riesling On the contrary, fresh white wines, rose and sparkling, such as Prosecco, are made for immediate consumption and do not benefit from aging. How to store wine for aging? Proper storage is the key to the success of aging. Follow these simple steps: Fixed temperature : About 12°C Ideal humidity : 60-70% Away from light and vibration Horizontal positioning : To maintain cork liquid Respecting these conditions ensures that your wine will evolve properly. When to open an old wine? The best time to open an aged wine depends on its type and your personal preferences. A practical advice is: Buy 12 bottles from the same crop. Open one every year. Take note of the aromas, flavors and pleasure that each bottle offers you. When you notice that flavors begin to decline, it may be time to enjoy the rest of the bottles. The aging of wine is an exciting journey that combines science with art. When done correctly, it can highlight unique features and offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced wine lover, the important thing is to get to know your wine and enjoy every moment. Enjoy!
Is aged wine always better?
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in Wine spot