What's the difference between vintage and non-vintage wines?
The difference between a vintage wine and a non-vintage wine lies in the grapes used to make them. Here are the main distinctions:
Vintage wine :
A vintage wine is made from grapes harvested in a single specific vintage year, known as the millésime. The grapes used to produce this wine come from a single harvest year, and their quality is considered exceptional, reflecting the particular climatic conditions of that year. On the bottle label, you'll see the vintage indicated, for example, "Millésime 2015".
Non-vintage wine:
A non-vintage wine, also known as a vin sans millésime, is made from a blend of grapes from different harvest years. It is a blend of several vintages, often to guarantee a certain consistency in the style and quality of the wine. On the label of a non-vintage wine, you won't find any specific mention of a harvest year, but rather a general indication of the brand or name of the wine.
The main purpose of the distinction between vintage and non-vintage wines is to highlight the uniqueness of an exceptional vintage year. Vintage wines are often associated with superior quality, and are generally produced in wine-growing regions where climatic conditions vary from year to year. Non-vintage wines, on the other hand, are more common and are often produced in regions where climatic conditions are more stable.
It's important to note that the choice between vintage and non-vintage wines depends on individual preferences. Vintage wines can offer a more varied experience and capture the particularities of a specific year, while non-vintage wines offer a certain consistency in style and quality, regardless of annual variations.
Wine lovers appreciate the diversity of vintage wines, which allow them to discover unique characteristics linked to the weather conditions of the harvest year. On the other hand, non-vintage wines offer a reliable, consistent experience, which may be preferred by those seeking continuity in the taste of the wine they enjoy.
Ultimately, whether you opt for a vintage or non-vintage wine, the key is to choose the one that suits your personal tastes and the occasion. Each type of wine offers a distinct and enriching experience that will delight the taste buds of wine lovers. It's up to you to taste and explore the wine treasures that will awaken your senses and take your palate on a journey through the fascinating world of wine. Cheers and happy tasting!