Wine labels can often come across as a bunch of sophisticated gibberish at first sight. However, once you understand what you’re looking at and what to look for, they can reveal a lot about the wine inside the bottle. To read a wine label like a true connoisseur, you just need to learn the meanings of common words and phrases. A little education can significantly improve your ability to interpret wine labels and select the best wine for your palate. Here are some terms you might encounter on wine labels and how to interpret them.
The Basics of Wine Labels
Producer or Brand Name
The producer or brand name is usually one of the most prominent features on the label. It tells you who made the wine. This can be a specific vineyard, a cooperative of growers, or a large wine company. Familiarity with certain producers can help you make more informed choices, as their name often carries a reputation for quality and style.
Varietal
The varietal is the type of grape used to make the wine. Common examples include Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir. In some regions, especially in Europe, the label may not list the varietal but rather the region, which gives clues to the grape used (e.g., a red Bordeaux is typically made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or a blend of the two).
Region
The region indicates where the grapes were grown. This can range from a broad designation like “California” to a more specific appellation like “Napa Valley” or “Sonoma County.” In Old World countries (like France, Italy, and Spain), the region often plays a more critical role and can greatly influence the wine’s style and quality.
Vintage
The vintage year tells you when the grapes were harvested. This can give you an idea of the wine’s age and the climatic conditions during that growing season. Some vintages are considered better than others due to favorable weather conditions, which can affect the quality and taste of the wine.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV)
The ABV percentage indicates the alcohol content of the wine. This can range from about 5% for some light sparkling wines to over 15% for fortified wines. Generally, wines with higher alcohol content are fuller-bodied and have a more pronounced flavor.
Appellation and Classification
In many countries, wines are classified by appellation systems that guarantee certain standards. For example, in France, wines labeled “AOC” (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) meet specific criteria regarding grape variety, growing methods, and production techniques. Italy uses similar classifications like DOC and DOCG.
Decoding Common Terms
Estate Bottled
When you see “estate bottled” on a label, it means the wine was produced and bottled at the winery, and the grapes came from vineyards owned or controlled by the winery. This often implies a higher level of quality control.
Reserve
“Reserve” can mean different things in different countries. In some places, it’s a legally defined term indicating a wine of superior quality or extended aging. In others, it’s used more loosely by producers to signify a special wine.
Old Vines (Vieilles Vignes)
“Old vines” refers to wines made from grapevines that are typically 30-50 years old or more. Older vines usually produce fewer grapes, but the grapes tend to have more concentrated flavors. Therefore, they often result in more complex and nuanced wines.
Reading Labels from Different Regions
France
French wine labels are typically focused on the region of origin. For example:
- Bordeaux: Look for labels indicating the sub-region (e.g., Médoc, Saint-Émilion) and whether it’s a Grand Cru or Premier Cru.
- Burgundy: Labels often highlight the vineyard site (e.g., Chablis, Montrachet) and classification (e.g., Grand Cru, Premier Cru).
Italy
Italian labels may indicate the grape variety (e.g., Sangiovese, Nebbiolo) or the region (e.g., Tuscany, Piedmont). Look for DOC or DOCG status for assurance of quality.
Spain
Spanish labels often include the aging classification:
- Joven: Young, with little to no aging.
- Crianza: Aged at least two years, with at least six months in oak.
- Reserva: Aged at least three years, with at least one year in oak.
- Gran Reserva: Aged at least five years, with at least two years in oak.
United States
American wine labels typically list the grape variety and the region (e.g., Napa Valley, Willamette Valley). Look for AVA (American Viticultural Area) designation for a wine from a specific region known for its unique climate and soil.
FAQs About Reading Wine Labels
Q: What does “organic” mean on a wine label?
A: “Organic” means the grapes were grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Furthermore, if the label says “Made with Organic Grapes,” it means at least 70% of the grapes are organic.
Q: What is a “sulfite” and why is it on the label?
A: Sulfites are preservatives used to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. Most wines contain sulfites, and by law, any wine containing more than 10 parts per million must state “Contains Sulfites” on the label.
Q: How do I know if a wine is sweet or dry?
A: Look at the alcohol content and the region. Generally, higher alcohol content indicates a drier wine, as more sugar has been converted to alcohol. Additionally, certain regions are known for sweeter wines, like Germany’s Riesling or Italy’s Moscato.
Q: What does “biodynamic” mean?
A: Biodynamic wines are made using principles from organic farming along with specific soil and plant health practices. It’s a holistic approach to winemaking, often resulting in unique and expressive wines.
Q: Should I be concerned about the color of the wine label?
A: Not necessarily. The color and design of the label are more about branding than the quality of the wine. Focus on the information provided rather than the aesthetics of the label.
Reading wine labels doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding the key components and what they imply, you can make informed decisions and explore the world of wine with confidence.
Cheers!
