From Vine to Glass: Old Vine vs. Old Wine

Understanding the distinction between “old vine” and “old wine” is a fundamental step in delving deeper into the world of wine. Both terms might sound similar, but they refer to entirely different aspects of the winemaking process and contribute distinct characteristics to the final product. Today, I come with a more technical article about the difference between these two terms.  Also, I would like to help you understand wine labels from different countries and languages, and clear up the difference between old vine and old wine.

Old vines

Let’s start with “old vine.” This term refers to the age of the grapevines from which the grapes used in winemaking are harvested. In general, “old vine” grapes come from vineyards with vines that are typically 35 years or older. Although, there’s no strict rule defining the exact age. These vines have weathered the passage of time, often displaying deep root systems that can tap into diverse soil layers. This can result in grapes with more concentrated flavors and complex nuances. Older vines tend to yield fewer grapes, but the grapes they do produce are of higher quality, with a better balance of sugars, acids, and tannins. The resulting wines often exhibit greater depth, intensity, and character, reflecting the unique terroir of the vineyard.

Decoding languages

Various wine-producing regions around the world have their own criteria and regulations for designating wines made from old vines. Here, I’ll explore some notable examples:

France:

• In France, particularly in regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux, the term “Vieilles Vignes” is commonly used to denote wines made from old vines. While there’s no official age requirement, vineyards typically need to be at least 30 to 40 years old to qualify.
• Certain appellations, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhône Valley, have specific regulations regarding vine age. For instance, in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, vineyards must be at least 25 years old to produce wines labeled as “Vieilles Vignes.”

Spain:

• In Spain, the term “Viñas Viejas” is used to designate wines made from old vines. These vines are often found in regions like Rioja, Priorat, and Ribera del Duero. While there’s no strict definition of vine age, “Viñas Viejas” wines are typically made from vines that are at least 35 to 50 years old.

Portugal:

• In Portugal, particularly in the Douro Valley for Port wines, the term “Vinhas Velhas” is used to indicate wines made from old vines. Again, there’s no standardized age requirement, but these vines are usually several decades old and can be well over 50 years in age.

United States:

• In the United States, particularly in regions like California, “Old Vine” is a term often used on wine labels, though it’s not regulated as strictly as in some European countries. The age of vines considered “old” can vary from region to region and even among producers. In general, however, old vine wines in the U.S. are typically made from vines that are 40 years or older.

Australia:

• Australia also has a significant presence of old vineyards, particularly in regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. The Barossa Old Vine Charter is an initiative aimed at preserving and promoting old vineyards in the Barossa region. Wines made from these old vines are labeled with a logo indicating their adherence to the charter.

The big question: WHY old vines are so unique?

Old vines hold a revered status in the world of winemaking, cherished for the depth, complexity, and quality they impart to the wines they produce. The advantages of old vines are multifaceted, stemming from their resilience, deep-rootedness, and ability to yield grapes with exceptional concentration and flavor. Here are some key advantages of old vines in winemaking:

Root Depth and Stability:

• Over the decades, old vines develop extensive root systems that penetrate deep into the soil, accessing nutrients and water sources that younger vines may not reach. This allows them to withstand periods of drought more effectively and contributes to the stability and consistency of the vineyard ecosystem.

Low Yields, High Quality:

• Old vines typically produce fewer grapes per vine compared to younger vines. While this may seem like a disadvantage from a production standpoint, it actually benefits the quality of the grapes. With fewer clusters to support, the vine can channel more energy into each grape, resulting in berries that are smaller, more concentrated, and packed with flavor.

Balanced Ripening:

• As vines age, they tend to achieve better balance in terms of sugar levels, acidity, and phenolic ripeness in the grapes. This balanced ripening contributes to the complexity and harmony of the resulting wines, with nuanced layers of flavor and structure.

Unique Flavor Profiles:

• Old vine grapes often exhibit distinctive flavor profiles that reflect the specific terroir of the vineyard and the grape variety itself. The concentrated flavors derived from older vines can include nuances of dark fruit, spice, earthiness, and minerality, adding depth and character to the wines.

Consistency and Longevity:

• Wines made from old vines are known for their consistency and ability to age gracefully. The inherent balance and concentration of flavors ensure that these wines maintain their integrity over time, evolving and improving with age, often reaching their peak several years after bottling.

The oldest vines in the World

One notable example is the “Old Vine” in Maribor, Slovenia. This ancient vine, known locally as “Stara trta,” is believed to be over 400 years old, making it one of the oldest grapevines in the world. It has survived wars, natural disasters, and changing political landscapes, symbolizing resilience and endurance. The vine still produces small quantities of grapes, primarily the Žametovka variety, which are used to make limited batches of wine for special occasions. The Old Vine has become a beloved cultural icon in Maribor, celebrated through festivals, exhibitions, and the preservation of its legacy for future generations to appreciate and admire.

In Australia, old vines also play a significant role in the country’s winemaking landscape, particularly in regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Many of Australia’s oldest vineyards were planted by European settlers in the 19th century, and some of these vineyards still thrive today, showcasing the resilience and enduring quality of old vines. These historic vineyards, often referred to as “Heritage Vines,” contribute to the diversity and richness of Australian wines, with their own unique stories to tell.

One remarkable example is the “Ancestor Vine” in the Barossa Valley, South Australia. Planted in the mid-1840s, this ancient Shiraz vineyard is believed to be one of the oldest continuously producing vineyards in the world. Despite its age, the Ancestor Vine continues to produce small quantities of high-quality grapes, demonstrating the remarkable longevity and vitality of old vines.

Old wines

On the other hand, “old wine” refers to the age of the wine itself, specifically how long it has been aged in the bottle before consumption. Aging wine can significantly alter its flavor, aroma, and texture, allowing it to develop more complexity and smoothness over time.

However, not all wines benefit from aging, and the ideal aging period varies depending on the type of wine, grape varietal, winemaking techniques, and storage conditions. Some wines are meant to be enjoyed young and fresh, showcasing their vibrant fruit flavors, while others, particularly high-quality red wines like Bordeaux blends, Barolo, or Rioja, can improve with extended aging, sometimes for decades. During aging, chemical reactions take place within the wine, leading to the formation of new compounds that contribute to its overall bouquet and taste profile. Tannins soften, acidity integrates, and tertiary aromas and flavors emerge, adding layers of complexity and sophistication to the wine.

How to store your wines to become old wines?

Unlocking the full potential of an old wine requires more than just patience—it demands proper storage and care to preserve its integrity and ensure a sublime tasting experience, even decades later. The key to storing old wines lies in maintaining a stable environment that shields them from the detrimental effects of light, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and vibration. Here are some essential tips for storing old wines properly:

Temperature:

• Consistent, cool temperatures are paramount for aging wine gracefully. Ideally, wines should be stored between 7°C to 18°C, with fluctuations kept to a minimum. Extreme heat can accelerate aging and spoil the wine, while cold temperatures can cause the liquid to contract and push out the cork, leading to oxidation.

Humidity:

• Adequate humidity levels, around 50% to 70%, help keep corks moist and prevent them from drying out. Dry corks can shrink and allow oxygen to seep into the bottle, hastening the wine’s deterioration. Conversely, excessive humidity can promote mold growth and damage labels.

Light:

• Exposure to light, especially ultraviolet (UV) rays, can degrade the wine and lead to premature aging. It’s best to store wines in a dark or dimly lit area to minimize light exposure. UV-filtered lighting can also help protect the bottles.

Vibration:

• Vibrations from nearby machinery or heavy foot traffic can disturb the sediment in older wines and affect their aging process. To avoid this, store wines in a location where they are unlikely to be subjected to frequent vibrations.

Position:

• While many believe that wine should be stored horizontally to keep the cork moist, this isn’t necessary for screw-capped or synthetic-corked bottles. However, if the wine has a natural cork closure, storing it on its side can help keep the cork in contact with the wine, preventing it from drying out.

Conclusion

In summary, while “old vine” refers to the age of the grapevines and influences the quality and character of the grapes they produce, “old wine” pertains to the age of the wine itself and how it evolves and matures over time in the bottle. A beautiful circle from vine to glass. Both aspects play crucial roles in shaping the final wine experience, but understanding the differences between them allows us to appreciate and evaluate wines even deeper, enriching their enjoyment and exploration of the vast and fascinating World of Wines.