Contributor: Tersina Shieh

Whether a wine is suitable for aging depends on the characteristics of the wine. High level of acidity and/or tannin, with a high concentration of fruit aroma, are important consideration for the wine’s ageability. The acidity/tannin and fruit aroma work together like the skeleton and muscles of a body do. Over time, the fruit aroma contained in the bottle becomes more complex and exhibits other flavors such as nuts, dried leaves, tobacco, mushrooms, and earthy note. On the other hand, the acidity and tannin will soften over time. The color of a red wine will fade to a brick red color, while a white wine will turn dark yellow.

Some of the most common wines suitable for aging include top quality French Bordeaux, Italian Barolo and premium German Riesling. These wines can often be stored for 10 to 20 years. Others such as Noble Rot and fortified wine like Portugal’s Vintage Port can even be stored for over 50 years.

The most ideal environment to store wine is a cool place away from direct light and heat to maintain a constant temperature and humidity. While wine ages much faster under high temperature, its chemical reaction becomes almost idle under 10ºC. Therefore, the ideal temperature to store wine is between 12 to 16ºC.

For most rosé, white wine, and some lighter bodied red wines such as Beaujolais and Valpolicella, the fresh fruity flavor is often the source of enjoyment. Therefore, these wines should be consumed when they are young. In fact, over 90% of the wine sold in the market is meant to be consumed within one to five years. It doesn’t mean that these wines have poorer quality. It’s simply a matter of wine style difference. If these wines are stored for too long, they will lose their flavors and appeal.

A lot of consumers think that all Bordeaux wines are suitable for aging. This is incorrect. Only wines that are produced in top wineries will have the necessary concentration and body for aging. Naturally, these wines will certainly be more expensive. Contrary to the belief that only wines produced in the Old World are suitable for aging, wines produced in the New World can be equally outstanding and have the potential to age. The bottom line is that we shouldn’t simply assume all wines can be aged. If there is any doubt regarding a wine’s ageability, please consult the winery website or a reputable wine shop.

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A marketer turned winemaker, Tersina's mission is to promote a stronger wine culture in Hong Kong and China, explaining wine in a no-nonsense way.

This post was created by a Jubee contributor. Views represented are not affiliated with Jubee. Photo by Anja.