Wine tips
5 tips when looking at wine labels
Wine labels offer a wealth of information. From unique designs that capture our attention to the fine print on the back label of bottles. But how do you know if a wine is worth purchasing? How do you minimize the chance of being disappointed? Here are some tips to help guide you.
1. The Basics
Start with the basics. While it’s good to know the history of a vineyard, the contents of the bottle should be clearly labeled, such as the grape variety, its alcohol content, the vintage or year, and its appellation or region of origin. Without this being clearly labeled, it would be best to move on to the next bottle.
2. Words Matter
Labels that use words and phrases like “estate bottled”, “reserve” and “award winning” have little meaning without context. The more details provided the better, as many words are unregulated depending on the country. For example, Spain and Italy are highly regulated, but the United States and Australia, not so much.
3. The Region
This relates to the country and town where the grapes are harvested. Within these towns you can have even smaller areas, each uniquely affected by the environment, which in turn influences the flavor, tones and and characteristics of the grapes. Usually the more specific the region, the higher the quality of wine.
4. The Vineyard
The name of the vineyard offers insight into where the grapes came from, their reputation with consumers, and details in regards to flavor, production and quality. Reviews can be found with a simple scan from your phone using some favorite apps like Vivino, Delectable Wine and Wine.com
5. The Winemaker
Like master chefs in a restaurant, winemakers lend their reputation to making quality wines for wineries and wine companies. They are usually involved through the entire process. From harvesting of the grapes to tasting to bottling.