The science behind wine aging and wine storage: methods and their effects

The wine aging process, whether in bottle or barrel, is a transformative process that elevates the wine to a higher level of complexity. It's not just about letting the wine rest for a period; aging involves a series of chemical and physical reactions that shape the unique character of each wine and its final quality, influencing its aromas, flavors, and textures.

We will explore how and why wine aging is so vital in making the wine even better. We will discuss different wine storage methods, the ideal temperature and humidity conditions, the types of aging, and the differences between aging red and white wines. Additionally, through a case study, we will examine a selected wine from our portfolio, demonstrating its evolution over eight years of aging and why it has become a great option for those interested in wine investing.

Aging is a meticulous process that directly influences the wine’s final quality. This process occurs under a series of variables that must be carefully controlled to ensure optimal results. Let's explore how this happens and the various existing wine storage methods.

Wine Aging

Wine aging is a complex process that directly influences its final quality. This process involves chemical reactions that are essential for the development of desired textures, flavors, and aromas.

Aging in wood will lead to chemical reactions that allow complex and elegant aromas to develop. Spices, tobacco, leather, and even chocolate will evolve according to the type of wood and aging time. Additionally, wooden barrels allow for controlled micro-oxygenation of the wine, thanks to the wood fibers. This gradual process of oxygenation contributes to the evolution of the wine components, adding depth and complexity, while preserving its structure. Thus, the interaction between wine and wooden barrels is essential to create wines of exceptional quality.

Another chemical reaction from wood is the softening of tannins. In red wines, oxidation helps to soften the tannins, providing a velvety texture.

Wine storage

During the aging process, several wine storage methods might be used, each with its own characteristics and effects on the final product:

Barrels and casks

Traditionally, wine is aged in oak barrels, which make the wine softer, with complex flavors and aromas that can have different influences due to the type of wood and duration of use. It is important to highlight that wines produced in great terroirs, that are destined for high quality are often aged in barrels. This offers the wine a great complexity, enhancing the unique characteristics of the terroir.

Stainless steel tanks

These are preferred when a fresher, more aromatic, and fruity wine is desired.

Concrete ranks and amphorae

These are used by producers seeking a more traditional and natural approach to wine aging. They allow for controlled micro-oxygenation and subtle interaction with the porous material, influencing the wine's evolution over time, same as barrels but without that unique wood impact.

Bottle

Aging in the bottle is an essential final stage for many quality wines. During this period, the wine continues to develop, maturing its flavors and aromas, while interaction with oxygen is minimal.

Bottles should be stored horizontally; this position is recommended for wines with a cork stopper as it helps to maintain the cork's moisture, preventing it from drying out and thus avoiding air from entering the bottle. This is important to ensure the wine ages properly and maintains its quality over time.

In addition to the storage method, the temperature and humidity of the aging environment also play an important role in wine development. Ideally, wine should be stored at a constant temperature between 12°C and 15°C, with a relative humidity of 76% to 80%. These optimal conditions provide a conducive environment for wine to develop, resulting in exceptional quality.

Red vs White: the effects of the wine aging process on different types of wine

The aging process affects red and white wines differently due to their chemical compositions and characteristics inherent to each type of wine. Let's examine how aging affects each type of wine and the main differences between them.

Composition and structure

Red and white wines have different chemical compositions that influence their aging potential. Red wines are rich in tannins, pigments, and phenolic compounds, primarily originating from grape skins. These components provide structure, complexity, and aging ability to red wines.

On the other hand, white wines are generally more delicate, with lower tannin content and the absence of pigments from the skins. Their structure is dominated by acidity and fruity aromas, making them more susceptible to oxidation and less suitable for long aging compared to reds. Still, there are exceptions, such as Burgundian Chardonnays, which can age for decades.

Evolution of aromas and flavors

During aging, red and white wines undergo different sensory evolution processes:

Red Wines

With aging, the tannins present in red wines tend to soften and integrate better, resulting in a silkier texture and more complex, subtle flavors. Initial fruity aromas may evolve into earthy, spicy, and leathery notes while the wine's structure and depth are accentuated.

White Wines

White wines show a faster evolution and a shorter aging window than reds. Over time, the wine's acidity may decrease, resulting in a creamier mouthfeel. Fruity aromas may develop into honey, nut, and toasty notes, while the freshness gradually diminishes.

Ideal Consumption Time

Red wines typically reach their peak maturity after a few years of bottle aging, although some high-quality red wines can continue to evolve and improve for decades. On the other hand, many white wines are best enjoyed in their youth when they exhibit their freshness and aromatic liveliness, although some highly complex examples can age gracefully for several years. Wine aging is a unique and refined sensory experience.

How 8 years of aging affect a wine’s flavor profile: Salicutti, vintage 2015, Brunello di Montalcino "Piaggione"

This wine, after eight years of aging, reveals a remarkable transformation in its sensory aspects, resulting in a unique and refined experience. Let's see how aging influenced the aroma, flavors, and texture of the Salicutti | 2015 | Brunello di Montalcino "Piaggione"

Aromas

Extended aging allowed the wine's aromas to develop and deepen. The initial intensity of plums was complemented by complexity with aromas of chocolate and brown sugar, while notes of whole grain bread and roasted chestnuts provided an earthy and toasty touch. This combination of aromas results in a rich and complex olfactory experience.

Flavors

On the palate, aging revealed harmony between the fruity flavors characteristic of Salicutti wines and aging elements. Additionally, soft tannins, acquired during aging in oak barrels, contributed to an elegant structure, while refreshing acidity brought balance to the palate. Vanilla and roasted coffee bean flavors added complexity and depth to the wine, providing a great tasting experience.

Texture

The texture of the wine after 8 years of aging became even more velvety. The tannins seamlessly integrated into the wine, providing a velvety and silky mouthfeel. Balanced acidity and ripe fruits complemented this texture, creating a sense of harmony on the palate. The wine's texture reflects its maturity and complexity.

In summary, at its peak, Brunello di Montalcino “Piaggione” 2015 exhibits a maturity and complexity that only time can provide. Aromas and flavors evolve, becoming more refined and complex. Already, after 36 months of aging in wooden barrels, it makes the tannins silky and still has great potential for bottle aging.

Renowned critics have praised this particular gem for its excellence, such as Falstaff giving it a score as high as 96/100, describing the wine as bright and brilliant, with intense aromas of cherries, goji berries, and pomegranate. Highlighted the presence of dense tannins and a sweet texture integrated with a long and firm finish.

You can find in our marketplace a variety of exceptional wines that reflect the excellence and diversity of wine regions around the world, with a long-lasting aging potential.