Wine Aging: Does Keeping Cheap Wine In Storage Make It Better?

Have you ever heard that keeping a cheap bottle of wine for a long time can make it better? This is a common myth, and in this article, we will delve into whether this is true or not.

The simple answer is: for most cheap wines, storing them for a long time will not improve their flavor. Let's break this down further.

The Truth About Wine Aging

Wine aging is a complex process that involves chemical changes within the wine as it oxidizes. Most wines improve with short-term aging, which is usually limited to a year or less. After this period, the improvement slows down, and any further storage might even degrade the quality of the wine.

Does Aging Improve All Wines?

Despite the common belief, most wines, regardless of their price, will not get better with extended aging. A few exceptions are high-quality red wines that contain a high concentration of tannins. Tannins are compounds that contribute to the astringency of the wine, and they break down over time, smoothing out the wine's texture.

A Personal Anecdote

One memorable experience involved visiting a local wine shop in my area. There, I came across a couple of salesmen from a well-known Australian wine brand, frequently visiting to promote their inexpensive red wine, Long Flat Red. I mentioned that I had aged a few bottles for about six months in my cellar, and the results were remarkable. The wine had evolved and straightened out, much to the surprise of the salesmen, who now respected my experience.

Key Factors to Consider When Storing Wine

When considering storing any wine, there are several factors to take into account:

Temperature: Keeping wine at optimal temperatures (around 15-18°C) is crucial for long-term storage. Extreme temperatures can cause the wine to degrade more quickly. Humidity: Wine bottles need a certain level of humidity to prevent the cork from drying out and leaking air into the bottle, which can spoil the wine. Shelf Placement: Store bottles on their sides to keep the cork moist and prevent it from drying out. This is especially important for red wine bottles, but it's a good practice for white wine bottles too. Light: Exposure to light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) rays, can cause the wine to turn brown and lose its flavor. It's best to keep wine bottles in a dark or shaded area.

Conclusion

While it is true that some high-quality, tannic red wines can benefit from long-term aging, the majority of wines, especially cheap ones, are best consumed within a year of bottling. Proper storage conditions, such as optimal temperature, humidity, and light protection, can help in preserving the wine's quality.

For those who enjoy experimenting with wine aging, it's important to understand the nuances of different wine types and to store them under the best possible conditions. For the average enthusiast, however, focusing on fresh, unaged wines is often the best way to maximize enjoyment and flavor.