If you are a wine lover, you have come to the right place. Have you ever wondered how the wine ageing process is? How many steps are needed before drinking it from the glass? If that is the case, keep reading because we are going to talk about the wine ageing process and we can assure you it is a very interesting topic.
Wine ageing is defined as the controlled maturation process of a wine through which special characters are developed to obtain the best aromas and nuances. The ageing type will depend on the wine’s typology. The different ageing types mainly differ in the material used and in the presence of oxygen in the process. The most common materials are wood, stainless steel and glass.
Types of wine ageing
Organic ageing
This type of ageing occurs when wine ages underneath a layer of live yeasts, which is more widely known as ‘veil of flor’.
Oxidation ageing
Oxygen and wine do not generally get on very well, since oxygen provokes wine oxidation and, therefore, wine gets ruined. However, oxygen in very small quantities can be beneficial, since it favours microoxygenation.
Reductive ageing
As we already explained, wine and oxygen do not match very well, that is why wines normally evolve with almost no air contact. The reducing environment prevents oxidation and makes wine stabilise and reach the optimal consumption point. This type of ageing normally applies to young white wines.
Mixed ageing
It is the ageing par excellence. It is a mix between oxidation ageing and reductive ageing. Firstly, wine is aged in barrels, thus undergoing a mixed ageing. After that, wine is bottled, where it will stay for a period of time until it reaches its plenitude. Usually, great wines are aged by following this method. It can also apply to white wines.
Mind that these are very general guidelines. Indeed, every grape collection is different and, therefore, every vinification needs its adjustments. At Camino de Cabras, we take care of every small detail in our vinification process so that the care and dedication are reflected into every note of our wines when they are poured into your glass.