On Mature Wines

Question: Michael, what makes aged wine so fascinating to you?

Michael Auer: A truly great wine becomes more complex and harmonious over time. When tannins, acidity, and alcohol come together perfectly – that’s magic in a glass.

Question: Are there wines that are better enjoyed young?

Michael Auer: Absolutely! There are many wines that are meant to be fresh, fruity, and uncomplicated – and that’s what makes them great. Not every day calls for a grand wine experience. But when it’s a special occasion, aged wines are my first choice. They offer more depth and tell a story. A well-aged Blaufränkisch can be incredible – especially when it still carries that inner vibrancy.

Question: What actually happens when a wine ages?

Michael Auer: Over time, a wine evolves – bright fruit aromas give way to more mature notes like honey, herbs, or earth. The flavor becomes rounder and more layered. Red wines soften, and white wines often develop a creamy texture as tannins and other compounds bind and gradually settle.

Question: Does wine have an expiration date?

Michael Auer: I get that question a lot. The ideal drinking window is when the wine is in perfect balance – tannins, acidity, and alcohol in harmony. The best way to find out? Taste and gain your own experience.

Question: Any tips for people who want to age wines themselves?

Michael Auer: Sure, here are my three essentials:

1. Store it right: Keep it dark, consistently cool (around 10–14°C), and with enough humidity to stop the cork from drying out. That’s crucial.

2. Choose the right wines: Not every wine ages well. Go for high-quality wines with potential – grape variety and vintage matter.

3. Geduld haben: Ageing takes time. Try the same wine at different stages to see how it evolves. That’s how you learn to find your personal drinking window.

Question: Thanks for the insights.

Michael Auer: Always a pleasure! Aged wines are like great conversations – they need time, but the result is worth it.

Syrah