Yes, wines that have undergone aging on the lees can continue to age in the bottle. Lees aging is a process in winemaking where the wine is left in contact with the dead yeast cells and other particles that settle at the bottom of the fermentation vessel. This process can impart complex flavors, aromas, and textures to the wine, which can develop further with bottle aging.
What is lees aging?
Lees aging is a traditional winemaking technique where the wine is left in contact with the lees, which are the dead yeast cells, grape skins, stems, and seeds that settle at the bottom of the fermentation vessel. This process can add richness, complexity, and depth to the wine, as the lees release compounds that interact with the wine.
How does lees aging impact wine aging?
When wines undergo aging on the lees, they can develop unique characteristics that can continue to evolve in the bottle over time. Here are some ways in which lees aging impacts wine aging:
- Texture: Lees aging can contribute to a creamy, velvety texture in the wine, which can become more pronounced with bottle aging.
- Complexity: The interaction between the lees and the wine can result in a more complex flavor profile with notes of toast, nuts, and brioche, which can evolve and integrate with other flavors over time.
- Aromas: Lees aging can enhance the aromatic profile of the wine, adding layers of complexity with hints of yeast, dried fruits, and spices that can develop further with aging.
- Structure: Wines that have undergone lees aging often have a more structured and balanced profile, with a good backbone of acidity and tannins that can help the wine age gracefully.
Factors to consider when aging wines that have undergone lees aging
While wines that have undergone lees aging can benefit from further aging in the bottle, there are some factors to consider to ensure that the wine ages well and continues to evolve:
- Quality of the wine: High-quality wines that have undergone lees aging are more likely to age well, as they have a good balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins that can support aging.
- Storage conditions: Proper storage conditions, such as a cool, dark, and humid environment, are essential for aging wines, as they can help prevent premature aging and ensure that the wine develops in a consistent manner.
- Bottle aging potential: Not all wines that have undergone lees aging are suitable for long-term aging. It’s important to consider the aging potential of the wine based on its structure, acidity, and tannins.
- Tasting notes: Keeping track of the wine’s evolution through regular tastings can help you determine the optimal aging period for the wine and ensure that you enjoy it at its peak.
How to determine the aging potential of wines that have undergone lees aging
While some wines that have undergone lees aging are meant to be enjoyed young and fresh, others have the potential to age gracefully in the bottle. Here are some ways to determine the aging potential of wines that have undergone lees aging:
- Producer recommendations: Some wineries provide recommendations on the optimal aging period for their wines, based on the winemaking techniques used and the wine’s structure.
- Wine reviews: Consulting wine reviews from trusted sources can provide insights into the aging potential of the wine and help you decide whether it’s worth aging further.
- Tasting notes: Keeping detailed tasting notes can help you track the wine’s evolution over time and determine whether it is aging well or starting to decline.
- Expert advice: Seeking advice from wine professionals or sommeliers can help you assess the aging potential of the wine and make informed decisions about when to open it.