The Language of Wine: Mastering the Art of Reading Labels

Wine labels can seem intimidating, filled with foreign words and unfamiliar terms. But once you know what to look for, they become a useful tool to help you choose the right bottle.

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Start with the region or country. European wines often list the place of origin — like Bordeaux or Rioja — which also hints at the grape varieties used. New World wines, such as those from South Africa or New Zealand, typically put the grape variety front and centre, like Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc.

The vintage, or harvest year, tells you when the grapes were picked. This matters more in regions with variable weather, as it can affect the wine’s character.

Pay attention to the alcohol content too. Lighter wines usually sit around 11–12%, while fuller-bodied wines may reach 14% or more.

Finally, look out for terms like “Reserva”, “Grand Cru”, or “Estate Bottled”. These can indicate quality, ageing methods, or where the wine was made — though meanings vary by country.

Once you understand these key details, reading a wine label becomes far less daunting — and choosing your next bottle becomes much more enjoyable.

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