Decoding wine labels
From European favorites to local delights, discover the secrets hidden on wine bottles.
Story + Photos by Danielle Petty
The quest for the perfect bottle of wine can be a bewildering experience. In a sea of labels, some overflowing with intricate details and others maintaining an air of minimalism, it’s all too easy to find oneself adrift in the options. Certain labels choose to accentuate the grape variety, while others proudly showcase the vineyard where the grapes took root. Fortunately, armed with a keen understanding of what to look for on a wine label, this enigmatic pursuit can swiftly transform into a more navigable expedition. To unravel the mysteries concealed within wine labels, we sought guidance from local wine experts who generously shared their insights.
Producer or name
Often the producer’s name takes center stage on the label. Different wine producers employ various labeling approaches — even wines from the same brand may feature distinct label designs. Certain producers are renowned for specific wine types, with the majority of information displayed prominently on the bottle’s front label, while others prefer a more discreet placement on the back label. In cases where the bottler and producer are identical, you may find their names on the back label instead of the front.
Variety or appellation
For many wine enthusiasts, the grape variety and its place of origin are vital pieces of information to find on the label. The grape variety, when combined with the region, can offer insights into whether the wine will be sweet, acidic, tannic or aged in a specific manner. Occasionally producers blend multiple grape types, and in such cases, the label will include the appellation to provide a sense of the wine’s character, particularly if you are familiar with other wines from the region.
Vintage or non-vintage
A significant aspect of a wine label that provides valuable insights is the wine’s vintage, denoting the year the grapes were harvested. While it may seem inconsequential, the vintage year can shed light on the grape quality, as some years are more favorable for grape cultivation than others. For instance, vintages marked by adverse weather conditions or extreme heat may lead you to avoid wines from those years. Bottles without a specified vintage year are typically made from grapes harvested in multiple years.
Region/location
Another critical piece of information found on wine labels is the region where the grapes are harvested or the appellation. Various wine-producing regions are celebrated for their unique qualities and wine styles. Therefore, understanding the origin of your wine, from harvest to bottling, can offer valuable insights before you even taste it. Labels are often designed to reflect the styles of other wines from the same region. For instance, European wine labels often prioritize conveying the regional style over specifying grape varieties used. Since the same grape varieties can yield diverse flavors based on their origin, understanding the wine-producing region becomes essential if you seek a particular taste profile. While some labels provide specific details about the wine’s place of origin, including the vineyard, this level of detail is not obligatory and may not be present on every bottle.
ABV (alcohol by volume)
Another crucial detail to look for is the wine’s ABV (alcohol by volume), typically listed as a percentage. This figure may differ from the actual alcohol content inside the bottle. Legally, wine producers are allowed a 1.5% variation for wines with an alcohol content of 14% or less, while a 1% variation is permitted for wines with an ABV above 14%. This allowance stems from the fact that wine producers must submit labels in advance, and the wine may not have reached its final alcohol content at the time of label approval. Wines with less than 14% ABV often omit the percentage and are labeled as “table wine.”
Additional elements
Some wine producers may choose to include additional details on their labels. One such piece of information is the age classification, frequently seen on European wine labels. Different regions may have distinct classifications with varying definitions. Aging processes can significantly influence the wine’s flavor, making this detail worth noting. Additionally wine labels are required to display a sulfite warning if the wine contains more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfites. Sulfites, which can occur naturally or be added during the aging process to preserve freshness, do not require disclosure for amounts less than 10 ppm or for naturally occurring sulfates.