Wines for laying down are a special category of wines capable of ageing for several years while improving their qualities. Their ageing potential makes them a popular choice for wine lovers and collectors alike.
What is a vin de garde?
A vin de garde is a wine designed to evolve favorably over time, developing new aromas and refining its structure.
1. The characteristics of a wine for laying down
- Tannin structure: Red wines with powerful tannins age better.
- Acidity: Good acidity keeps wines fresh and balanced.
- Aromatic potential: Wines for laying down develop complex aromas over time.
2. Difference with young drinking wines
Unlike wines for immediate consumption, wines for laying down need several years to reach their peak.
How to choose wines for laying down?
1. Selecting the right grape varieties
- Red grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Nebbiolo, Malbec.
- White grape varieties: Riesling, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc.
2. Opt for well-known regions
- Bordeaux: Grands Crus classés, famous for their longevity.
- Burgundy: Côte de Nuits reds and Meursault whites are highly sought-after.
- Piedmont (Italy): Barolo and Barbaresco, made from Nebbiolo grapes, age beautifully.
3. Check vintages
Vintage plays a crucial role in aging potential. Find out about favorable years for each region.
4. Trust recognized producers
The larger estates and châteaux have better mastered the winemaking techniques needed to produce wines for aging.
Steps to good wine cellar management
1. Maintain a constant temperature
Ideal: Between 12 and 14°C.
Problem: Temperature variations accelerate ageing.
2. Control humidity
Ideal humidity: Between 70 and 80%.
Impact: Too low a humidity level dries out corks, while too high a level encourages mold growth.
3. Avoid light
Risk: UV rays alter the aromas and color of wine.
Solution: Store your bottles in the dark or use UV-protective display cases.
4. Position cylinders correctly
Lying down: The wine must be in contact with the cork to prevent it from drying out.
5. Use management tools
- Dedicated applications: Follow the evolution of your bottles and their peak date.
- Labeling: Indicate the essential information for each wine (year, peak, grape variety).
Wine ageing: what you need to know
1. The evolution of aromas
Over time, primary aromas (fruity) give way to secondary aromas (woody) and tertiary aromas (spicy, smoky, truffled).
2. Ideal ageing time
- Tannic red wines: 10 to 20 years (e.g. Bordeaux, Barolo).
- Dry white wines: 5 to 10 years (e.g. Meursault, Riesling).
- Sweet wines: 15 to 50 years (e.g. Sauternes, Tokaji).
3. Identify a wine's peak
The apogee is the moment when the wine reaches its perfect balance of aroma, structure and maturity.
Mistakes to avoid with ageing wines
- Improper bottle storage: Inadequate storage can ruin a wine for ageing, even from a great vintage.
- Waiting too long: A wine kept beyond its peak loses its qualities and often becomes flat.
- Neglecting to open: Some ageing wines require prolonged aeration to reveal their aromas. Decant them carefully.
Food and wine pairing with ageing wines
1. Red wines
Examples: Bordeaux or Barolo.
Pairings: Red meats, game, dishes in sauce.
2. White wines
Examples: Meursault or Riesling.
Pairings: Fish, poultry, creamy dishes.
3. Sweet wines
Examples: Sauternes or Tokaji.
Goes well with: blue cheeses, fruit desserts, foie gras.
Trends in ageing wines
1. Back to traditional practices
Natural or biodynamic wines are gaining in popularity for their ability to age without additives.
2. Focus on emerging regions
Lesser-known regions such as Croatia and Greece are now producing interesting wines for laying down.
3. Modern wine cellar management solutions
Connected cellars allow you to follow the evolution of your bottles in real time.
Conclusion
Choosing and storing wines for ageing requires patience and special care. Good cellar management and optimal conditions enable you to appreciate the full potential of wine aging. Take the time to get to know your bottles so you can enjoy them at the right time.
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