Wines to Age or Not to Age: Guidance and Insights
When it comes to wine storage, the decision of when to age a wine and when not to can significantly impact its taste and enjoyment. This article explores which white, rose, and sparkling wines should be aged and which should be enjoyed young. We also provide some general guidelines for red wines.
White and Sparkling Wines
Most white wines, such as whites and roses, are best consumed young and do not benefit much from aging. There are a few exceptions, however, such as sweet dessert wines and classic White Burgundies. Sweet dessert wines, including late-harvest and botrytized varieties, can undergo complex changes as they age, enhancing their flavors and aromas.
White Burgundies, made from the Chardonnay grape, are renowned for their ability to age. These exceptional wines hold their early appeal and develop fascinating complexity when stored properly. Aging can introduce layers of flavor that were not previously noticeable. However, it's important to note that even among White Burgundies, the aging process can be unpredictable, and not all bottles will benefit from extended cellaring.
In the case of sparkling wines, particularly Champagne, the situation is different for certain varieties. While many premium Champagnes made from Pinot Noir are designed to age, the vibrant fruit flavors of Dolcetta, Beaujolais, and Zinfandels finished at 11-13% alcohol do not benefit from aging. These wines are at their best when consumed fresh and fruity.
Red Wines
The red wine category is a bit more complex. Red wines whose appeal is primarily based on their fruit flavors are generally not suitable for aging. Examples include Dolcetto, Beaujolais, and Zinfandels aged to finish at 11-13% alcohol. These wines are refreshing and delicious when drunk young, but extended storage can rob them of their fruity characteristics.
Barbera, a popular red wine from Italy, is another example. While it is tasty and appealing as a light food wine, deliberate aging does not enhance its appeal. These wines are most enjoyable when enjoyed fresh and fruity. For those looking to age reds, it’s important to consider varieties that can improve with age, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Pinot Noir, provided they are stored under ideal conditions.
General Guidelines
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of aging wine. However, here are some general guidelines to consider:
White Wines
Most whites should be consumed within 3-5 years of release. Sweet dessert wines can be aged, but should be stored properly under ideal conditions. Classic White Burgundies can be aged but should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.Red Wines
Aged, full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec can benefit from cellaring. Fruity reds like Dolcetto, Beaujolais, and Zinfandel should be enjoyed within a few years of release. Proper storage can extend the life of aged reds.Conclusion
The decision to age a wine or not is influenced by the wine's type, the characteristics it is made to showcase, and the conditions in which it is stored. By considering the specific needs of each wine, one can ensure that they are enjoying the optimal drinking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which white wines benefit from aging?
Sweet dessert wines and classic White Burgundies are the most notable exceptions to the general rule that most whites should be enjoyed young. Proper storage and aging can enhance their flavors and aromas.
Can all red wines be aged?
No, not all reds are suitable for aging. Fruity reds such as Dolcetto, Beaujolais, and Zinfandel are best enjoyed within a few years. However, full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec can improve with age if stored properly.
What are the best conditions for storing aged wines?
For both red and white wines, the ideal storage conditions are a consistent temperature, ideally between 55-65°F (13-18°C), and a moderately humid environment (50-70%). Avoid storing wine in direct sunlight, and ensure the bottles are stored horizontally to keep the cork moist.