Aging is the deliberate maturation of wine to develop flavour, texture and complexity, occurring in two phases: élevage (in barrel, tank or amphora before bottling) and bottle aging afterward. Oxidative barrel aging softens tannins and adds spice; reductive bottle aging slowly transforms aromas. Sturdy, tannic or high-acid wines reward long aging; light, fruity wines do not. Aging is a winemaker's tool and a collector's gamble.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR COLLECTORS
Aging requires proper conditions — cool, stable temperature, darkness, humidity and stillness. Even a great wine ages badly in a warm closet. Provenance and storage history are central to a wine's value.
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