Understanding how white wine ages

Despite many scientific research the white wine aging process remains quite unclear. However, we are certain of the importance of certain grape glycosides in this process. During the white wine aging process, theu help to develop varietal aromas in the wine.

Given the much lower level of phenolics in white wine (compared to red wines), the central component helping a white wine to age is its acidity level…

Understanding how (good) red wine ages

To untutored wine taster, older red wines seem to be softer and gentler than harsh, inky young red wines. Those who notice such things will also observe a change in colour, typically from deep purple to light brick red. There should also be more sediment in old wine than a young one.

All of these phenomena are connected, and they are particularly related to the behavior of phenolics. These phenolics are compounds found in grapes, particularly in the skins…

Understanding Wine Acidity

Acidity is a general term for the fresh, tart or sour taste produced by the natural organic acids present in a wine. It is generally considered that wines owe their attractive qualities to a proper balance between this acidic character and the sweet and bitter sensations of other components.

All wines have some level of acidity, which is typically perceived on the human palate by a prickling sensation on the sides of the tongue.

Understanding the role of Acetaldehyde in a wine

‘Acetaldehydes’ are the most common member of the group of chemical compounds known as ‘Aldehydes’, a natural constituent of nearly all plant material, including grapes. Acetaldehyde is the next to last substance involved in the fermentation pathway (and is therefore a minor constituent of all fermented products). Acetaldehyde is naturally present in wine and all wines still contain acetaldehyde after fermentation…

Understanding the ‘Rhône Rangers’ movement

The term ‘Rhône Rangers’ is a quite loose term used to designate the affiliation of California Wine producers led by Bob Lindquist from the Qupé Winery and Randall Grahm from the Bonny Doon winery. In the 1980s, both of them, decided to produce wines in the style of red wines (mainly from Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre grape varieties) and white wines (from the Viognier grape variety) made in the Rhône Valley, France…

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