Wine on the Radio - November 12, 2003

Age Worthy Wines

Here's the answer to an email from Nancy in Jacksonville as posed to Chicago Wine School's Patrick W. Fegan. Her question: "People talk about 'age worthy wines.' What's that really mean?"

"Well Nancy, wine is considered age worthy when it has the combination of components that allow it to develop, improve and mature in the bottle over time.

It's the balance of tannins, alcohol, acidity and sometimes sugars, along with the skill and style of the grape grower and wine maker that give us age worthy wines.

It means that the wine has the complexity and integration of these components so it will become smoother, with layers of aromas and flavors.

A typical indicator of red wines age worthiness is the balance of the tannins with the fruit.

How do you know without a taste?

If you can't get a taste read the release notes on their website or the wine's press clippings."

Email your questions .

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