WYNCH · Reference library

Ageing

The stage after fermentation when young wine continues to mature. Its duration and the vessel used are specific decisions made by the winemaker.

Explained simply

After fermentation, wine is not always finished. It gets time in a tank, barrel, amphora or bottle—rather like a dish that comes together after resting.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

In more detail

Ageing is the stage after fermentation in which young wine continues to develop. Time, vessel, lees contact and oxygen exposure can change texture and aroma. Stainless steel often preserves freshness, while wood or clay can leave different structural and aromatic traces.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

What to look for

Compare not only the vessel but also the duration, vessel size, age of the barrel and lees contact. “Aged in wood” alone tells you very little.

Sources: Natural wine without myths

Read in the journal A barnyard or medicinal smell in natural wine can hide the fruit — guests do not have to drink it bravely. Explained in context in our article about natural wine.

Sources

  1. Natural wine without myths ·

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