The world of wine is full of traditions, stories and advice passed down from generation to generation. However, among them are hidden many myths that can confuse both beginners and experts. In this article, we debunk some common beliefs and reveal essential truths.
“The older the wine, the better”
Not all wines improve with time. In fact, many of them are designed to be consumed in the first years after bottling. The wines that have a greater capacity to age are those that have a longer aging period or are wines for cellaring, but this does not necessarily mean that these wines are better than a young wine or a wine of the year. In other words, this premise does not apply to any wine.
“Red wine should always be served at room temperature.”
This advice comes from times when houses were not heated. Nowadays, the ambient temperature can be too high for red wine. Ideally, it should be served between 15°C and 16°C, depending on the type of red.
“Expensive wine is always better”
The price of a wine does not always reflect its quality. There are inexpensive wines that offer a delicious experience and expensive wines that may not meet expectations.
“White wine is only served with fish and red wine with meat.”
Although it is usual, it is not a strict law. The pairing could be considered an art, the important thing is to find that balance between the flavors of the dishes and the nuances and characteristics that the wine brings to them.
In general terms, white wines, due to their freshness and acidity, are the ideal companions for starters, light dishes, seafood, fish and even desserts. Red wine is usually the perfect choice, due to its body and tannins, for red meats, spicy foods and chocolate.
“Sweet wine is only for beginners.”
Sweet wines, such as our Finca Antigua Moscatel Naturalmente Dulce, is appreciated and awarded by experts. Enjoying sweet wine has nothing to do with the level of consumer experience.
“Shaking the wine glass is just an elegant gesture.”
Swirling the glass has a practical function: it oxygenates the wine and allows it to release its aromas. It is not just a matter of style, but a useful technique to appreciate it better.
“Rosé wine is a blend of red and white.”
Although it can be done that way, some rosé wines, such as our Viña Bujanda Rosé, are produced by leaving the red grape skins in brief contact with the must, which gives them their characteristic color.
“Wine loses its quality if it is not finished in one night.”
Although wine begins to oxidize when opened, it does not lose its quality immediately. It can last several days in good condition if properly refrigerated and sealed.
“The color of red wine indicates its quality.”
The color of wine is not related to its quality, but to factors such as grape variety, maceration time and age of the wine. For example, a young red wine can be very intense, while an aged wine can have a lighter tone and be excellent.
“Cork is better than other closures. pobecause it allows the wine to ‘breathe'”.
The cork allows the wine to breathe in a controlled manner, its function is to limit the entry of oxygen. Thanks to this, wines with cellaring capacity evolve optimally, preserving all their nuances. Other types of closures have the same function and, in some cases, offer greater consistency and protection, which is why they are more commonly used in young wines or wines for more immediate consumption.
“Wine should be served in large glasses for all types.”
The shape of the glass affects the perception of the aromas and taste of the wine.
We mention some types and which wines are in accordance with their characteristics:
- The Chardonnay glass, with a narrow calyx and wide mouth, is designed to highlight the characteristics of white wines.
- The Bordeaux glass, with a wide and tall calyx, is commonly used for full-bodied red wines.
- The Burgundy glass, wide and rounded, is perfect for any red wine.
“White wine does not age well.”
Although most white wines are designed to be drunk young, some of our whites, such as Finca Montepedroso Verdejo, Montepedroso Enoteca, Finca Valpiedra Reserva Blanco or Finca Antigua Viura, can improve with time by developing complexity and richness.
“Sediment in wine is a defect.”
Sediments are natural in unfiltered wines or wines that have aged. Due to the respectful winemaking process, without cold stabilization and with a light filtration, natural sediments may appear in the wines.
“Wine should always be stored horizontally.”
This applies only if the wine has a cork, since contact with the liquid keeps the cork moist, prevents it from drying out and performs its sealing function. In the case of wines with screw cap or synthetic corks, it is not necessary.
“Sulfite in wine causes headache.”
Although sulfites are present in almost all wines (even in many foods), they are not the main cause of headaches. Factors such as dehydration, tannins or sensitivity to alcohol often play a role as well.
Wine is a beverage that combines science, art and tradition. Knowing the truths behind the myths not only helps us to enjoy it more, but also allows us to make informed decisions when choosing or serving it.
What other wine myths have you heard? Share with us, we want to know.