Winemaking

WHAT IS THE "AGING" OF WINE?

Aging is the process of maturing wines over time so they can improve. Wine can be aged in the barrel or in the bottle. Wines that benefit from aging become less harsh, less tannic, smoother, and more complex. Aging is necessary for some wines to reach their full potential. These include most fine red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec to name a few, and many white wines, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. Additionally, fortified, and sparkling wines benefit from aging.

Diane Valenti

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Barrel aging vs. bottle aging:

Barrel aging occurs prior to bottling, typically in French or American oak. Barrel aging is key for wines that need structure and complexity before bottling. While not suitable for all wine styles, it can elevate those that are. Wood aging requires careful selection of the barrels and careful monitoring. French Oak produces subtle spice, vanilla, and fine tannins. American Oak produces more pronounced vanilla, coconut, and sweeter spice notes. Timeframe: months to years.

Bottle aging restricts oxygen, leading to subtle chemical changes, enhancing the wine. It develops tertiary flavors such as leather, earth, and dried fruit. Wines with high acidity, tannins, or sugar tend to age better in bottles as these elements act as natural preservatives. Bottle aging is crucial for wines meant to mature over time, enhancing smoothness and complexity. Timeframe: months to decades.

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At Make Wine With Us, our goal is to obtain grapes from the very best grape growing regions of the world. The varietals from regions in California, Italy, and Chile represent some of the finest grapes known to winemakers. You will find grapes varying in body, acidity, and tannins. Let us help you find the perfect grape to fit your palate, from full-bodied reds to crisp white wines. Our objective is to assist you, our winemaker, in turning those grapes into wines you’ll continuously enjoy!

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CALIFORNIA GRAPES

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Raise your glass to our California grapes! Procured from the Mediterranean climate and sandy soil of Lodi, in Central Valley, to the rich soil of Amador County in the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, discover varietals from Barbera to Tempranillo. These grapes are aromatic, fruit-forward, and perfect for pressing during the fall harvest.

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ITALIAN JUICES


Italian juices, made from premium grapes, produce extraordinary wines. Varietals include Brunello, Dolcetto, Lambrusco, Black Malvasia, Meritage, Montepulciano, and Valpolicella. Additionally, popular white wine varietals are available. Choices abound!

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SPRING REGION: CHILE


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