Ullage is the gap between the wine level and the top of the bottle, caused by evaporation through the cork over time. A small ullage (cork-level or slightly below) is normal and expected in aged bottles. Significant ullage indicates extended cork exposure and potential oxidation risk. When buying aged wines, collectors inspect ullage carefully: high ullage suggests poor storage or seepage and increases oxidation risk. Very low ullage on old bottles is a mark of excellent storage. Ullage is measured in centimetres below the base of the capsule, rated from "into neck" (best) to "below shoulder" (poor).
WHY IT MATTERS FOR COLLECTORS
Ullage is a critical condition factor when buying aged wine. Low ullage indicates excellent provenance; high ullage suggests oxidation risk. When evaluating older bottles, ullage is one of the first things collectors assess.
Tasting cues
- Ullage is the air gap between wine and cork — not a taste, but a condition signal.
- High fill (into the neck) is reassuring on mature bottles; low shoulder fill raises risk.
- Evaporated volume can mean more oxygen exposure and faster ageing or spoilage.
Examples
- Auction listings for 20+ year Bordeaux routinely note fill level (into-neck, top-shoulder, mid-shoulder).
- Large formats (magnum) often age with more stable fill than standard bottles of the same wine.
- Screwcap bottles show little classic “ullage” discussion — the seal model differs.
Cellar actions
- Photograph and note fill level when buying mature wine; price should reflect risk.
- Store bottles on their side (cork) so the cork stays moist and the fill stable.
- Treat mid-shoulder mature reds as higher-risk — open soon or buy only at a discount.
Related terms
Try it yourself
Put your wine knowledge to work
Know what to open tonight — and never miss a wine at its peak.
Build a cellar, track windows, and pair from what you actually own.
Free Taster: up to 100 bottles · 20 AI scans · 10 pairings / month
Free forever · No credit card