The Colour of Wine
Brandon MarcWine is quite obviously more than just a colour. But, by the simple analysis of wine colour, can we predict anything about its attributes? Well, not entirely. But there are some rough guidelines that, together with other methods of analysis, may help us to approximate such things as wine quality, age and even alcohol content.
When you find yourself staring hopelessly at the contents of your glass during your next wine tasting, use the following guidelines to assist you in the process:
- Body (red wine only)
Place your glass three quarters full, flat onto a light surface and look down towards the stem of the glass. Can you see the bottom of your glass? If not, you’re probably dealing with a full bodied wine. If the bottom of your glass is a bit hazy, then your wine is probably medium bodied. And lastly, if the bottom of your glass is perfectly clear then it’s quite possibly a light, usually more ‘easy drinking’ red wine you’re about to encounter.
- Age
Tilt your glass slightly and examine the edge of the liquid. A somewhat brown hue indicates that the wine is probably quite old. Note that in white wine this discolouration could be more subtle, taking on a more golden tone. This could mean that the wine is either too old and has therefore gone ‘bad’, or it’s just a really old vintage meant to be aged. Hope for the latter.
- Alcohol content
Obviously this can’t be predicted exactly, but one can at least discern between a low and a high alcohol content wine. If you gently swirl the contents of your glass and then watch as the wine slides back down you will notice a clear liquid clinging to the inside of your glass as it retreats. This is in fact pure alcohol and is affectionately known as ‘Angels Tears’… so I’ve heard. And, for those more technically inclined, it is known as the Marangoni effect. The more ‘Angels Tears’ observed, the higher the alcohol content of the wine.
I hope that you will find the above guidelines useful at your next wine tasting experience… Good luck!
Cheers!
Brandon Marc
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Brandon Marc (Who am I?) Glad that you found My Wine Cellar Pablo!
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Brandon Marc
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Interesting post Brandon. I certainly learnt a thing or two….. Bring on the Angels Tears!