Estimated Reading Time: 8 Minutes
How Does One Read A Bottle Of Wine?
Imagine you’re walking down the aisles of a store (Spec’s) that has one of the largest selections of wine in Texas. While this is a fun task, it can also be overwhelming. Especially if you aren’t an expert sommelier, or wine steward. But fret not, in this blog we are going to uncork the secret of wine labels so you can find the perfect bottle for any occasion and make you a better wine consumer.
So pour yourself a glass of whatever wine you have handy and get on your reading glasses. This is going to be fun and you will not want to miss any information.
Ready? Let’s go!
How To Read The Front Of A Wine Bottle
We start our wine label reading journey as most do, at the front of the label. At first glance, there is a lot of information thrown at you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Let’s start with the easiest, the wine name. This quickly identifies the specific wine and is usually the most prominent text. You can quickly follow that up with the design of the label and see that it reflects the style of the wine as well as the winery’s branding. These can be icons, family crests, or certification stamps. Next, you should read the producer or winery, and get insight into who made the wine. You’ll also see varietal which indicates the type of grape used such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay. Additionally, you may see the region or appellation where the grapes were grown on the label. This will provide clues about the wine’s characteristics. Finally, you will see the vintage, or the year the grapes were harvested, and the alcohol content which is usually listed as a percentage.
How To Read The Back Of A Wine Bottle
Now that we’ve learned everything we need to know about how to read the front of a wine label, it’s time we ventured to the back.
First off, you will see “Produced and Bottled By”. This provides extensive information about the wine’s production, including the bottler’s name and location. When paired with other label information, like a vineyard designation, this term offers consumers valuable insights into the wine’s origin and the producer. You may see some differences between wines as some will have other terms:
“Cellared and Bottled By” indicates that the bottler has performed cellar treatment on the wine before bottling it at the specified address.
“Made and Bottled By” which indicates that the bottler fermented a minimum of 75% of the wine at the specified address.
“Bottled By” indicates that the bottler fermented a minimum of 75% of the wine at the specified address.
The second thing one will see is a government warning as all wine bottled after November 18, 1989, must include the health warning statement exactly as specified in federal regulations.
You will also see the fluid volume of the wine glass, usually 750mL as it is the most common size. You may also see half bottles, (375mL) and magnums (1.5L). Finally, wines that have a level of 10 parts per million or greater of sulfur dioxide must be labeled with “Contains Sulfites”.
Is There A Difference Between French Wine Labels And Others?
Yes, French wine labels differ from the labels you’d see from other countries. They often feature strict classifications like Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée and Indication Géographique Protégée (don’t worry we’ll explain those later) , which emphasize the wine’s origin and adherence to specific production standards. French labels also prioritize the region or appellation like “Bordeaux” or “Burgundy” over the grape variety, while other countries highlight the grape variety like Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, French labels tend to include detailed information about the wine’s production, such as aging requirements and vineyard practices, whereas labels from other countries may focus more on marketing elements like brand names or tasting notes.
Wine Label Terminology
Here’s some terms we’ve found that help beginners understand wine labels.
Old Vine – This refers to grapes harvested from vines that are typically at least 30 years old, although this can vary by region and winery. Older vines often produce smaller yields of grapes with more concentrated flavors, which can lead to more complex and flavorful wines. The term is not regulated, so it can be used somewhat subjectively, but it generally indicates that the wine comes from vines with a significant history and experience in producing quality fruit.
Grand Cru – Translating to “great growth”, this signifies a designation of exceptional quality, particularly in regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy in France, and typically indicates that the wine comes from a vineyard or specific site recognized for producing superior grapes.
DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) – This designation means “Controlled Designation of Origin” and signifies that the wine meets specific regulations regarding grape varieties, production methods, and geographic origin. DOC status helps ensure that wines maintain a certain quality level and reflect their region’s characteristics.
DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) – This stands for “Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin” and represents a higher classification than DOC. To achieve DOCG status, a wine must meet stricter requirements, including a longer aging period, lower yield limits, and more rigorous quality checks. DOCG wines are also subject to tasting by a government-appointed commission before they can be labeled as such.
Appellation – This refers to a specific geographic area where the grapes are grown and the wine is produced. It indicates the origin of the wine, which can significantly influence its characteristics and quality due to factors like climate, soil, and local winemaking traditions.
AVA (American Viticultural Area) – This is a designated wine grape-growing region in the U.S. known for its specific geographical and climatic characteristics. AVAs can vary in size and help consumers identify wines by origin, indicating attributes like commonly grown grape varieties or terroir influences. To be labeled with an AVA, at least 85% of the grapes must come from that area.
AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) – This is a French designation that indicates a controlled designation of origin. It signifies that a wine complies with specific regulations related to geographic origin, grape varieties, production methods, and quality standards. AOC ensures the wine reflects its region’s unique characteristics, promoting authenticity and quality, and helps consumers understand its provenance and style.
IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée which translates to Protected Geographical Indication) – This designation is used in France and other European countries to indicate that a wine is produced in a specific geographic area and meets certain production standards, but with less strict regulations than AOC wines. IGP wines allow for more flexibility in grape varieties and winemaking techniques, making them more accessible while still highlighting the wine’s regional origin and characteristics.
Estate – This typically means that the grapes used to produce the wine were grown on the winery’s own property. It suggests a level of control over the vineyard and the winemaking process, often indicating that the wine reflects the unique characteristics of that specific site.
Reserve – This generally signifies a wine of higher quality, although the designation may vary by region. It often means that the wine has been selected for special treatment, such as extended aging or stricter selection of grapes. In some regions, there may be specific legal requirements for using the term “reserve,” which can include criteria like aging duration or vineyard selection.
Riserva – This indicates that the wine has been aged for a longer period than standard wines, typically meeting specific regulations set by the region. This designation often implies a higher quality, as it suggests careful selection of grapes and a more extensive aging process, which can enhance the wine’s complexity and flavor.
Gran Reserva – This indicates an even higher quality than “Riserva,” typically requiring a longer aging process. This designation is often used in regions like Spain and means that the wine has been aged for an extended period, both in oak barrels and in the bottle, before release.
Is There Anything Winemakers May Leave Off The Wine Label?
Yes, there are a few things producers may leave off the wine label. There is no requirement for them to tell you if egg and dairy was used in fining the wine to make them clearer and brighter. They also don’t have to say anything about what other ingredients are in the wine such as purple dye or oak chips, the farming methods used, what yeast was used in fermentation, or anything about how the wine was made. If there’s a wine you are curious about, or have specific dietary needs or concerns, we recommend you do your own research on the wine. You may also come in and ask our friendly staff or reach out to one of our sommeliers. They are always happy to answer any question you may have.
Now What?
It is time to raise a glass! You are now ready to read wine labels just like our expert sommeliers. Perhaps you should try out your newfound knowledge and visit your neighborhood Spec’s and read the labels from the largest wine selection in Texas.
Happy sipping!
Wine Label FAQ
Wine labels often include terms like “Reserve,” “Estate Bottled,” “Old Vine,” or “Grand Cru.” These terms typically indicate production methods, quality levels, or specific regional standards, helping consumers understand more about the wine’s origin and character.
The vintage indicates the year the grapes were harvested. This can affect the wine’s taste as weather conditions during that year influence grape quality. Knowing the vintage can also help identify whether the wine is ready to drink or still developing.
The alcohol percentage (ABV) gives insight into the wine’s body and flavor. Higher ABV wines often feel fuller and warmer on the palate, while lower ABV wines are lighter and more delicate.
A varietal wine is made primarily from one type of grape (e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon), while a blend combines multiple grape varieties to achieve a balanced or complex flavor profile.
“Appellation” refers to the geographic region where the grapes were grown. In the U.S., this is often listed as an AVA (American Viticultural Area). These designations signal specific characteristics tied to the region, like climate and soil, which influence the wine’s flavor.
- Sulfite-Free: Indicates minimal or no added sulfites, though small amounts may naturally occur.
- Organic: Made from organically grown grapes, often with fewer chemical interventions.
- Biodynamic: A holistic farming approach that incorporates organic methods and lunar cycles. These terms can reflect both health-conscious choices and distinct flavor profiles.
The producer or winery name can reveal the wine’s reputation, production scale, and style. Well-known names often signify consistent quality, while smaller wineries may offer unique, artisanal wines.
Icons or symbols, such as Vegan, Kosher, or sustainability certifications, provide information about production standards or practices. They may also highlight unique qualities or cater to specific dietary preferences.
Clues to sweetness levels include terms like “Dry,” “Sec,” “Off-Dry,” or “Demi-Sec.” Additionally, the alcohol percentage, grape variety, and region can hint at the wine’s sweetness or dryness.
These terms generally indicate a wine of higher quality, often aged longer than standard bottlings. For example, “Gran Reserva” typically signals extended aging in oak barrels and bottles, resulting in complex flavors.
Bottle shapes often reflect the wine’s origin or style. For example, Bordeaux wines are in straight-sided bottles, while Burgundy wines use sloping shoulders. Label designs may reflect the wine’s branding or target audience but don’t always indicate quality.
The vintage, grape variety, and producer notes can provide hints. Young wines are often labeled for immediate consumption, while certain premium wines may specify aging potential.
Focus on the grape variety, region, vintage, and producer. These details provide the most insight into the wine’s taste, quality, and style, making it easier to choose a wine suited to your preferences.
The back label often includes tasting notes, food pairings, and production details. While partially marketing, these descriptions can still provide useful insights about the wine.
Foreign wines often use the native language to describe regions, classifications, or styles (e.g., AOC in France, DOCG in Italy). Understanding basic terms or using a guide can help translate key information to inform your choice.
