How to distinguish between expensive and cheap red wine

The price difference of red wine mainly depends on factors such as production area, vintage, brewing process, brand scarcity, and aging potential. The key factors for determining the value of red wine include grape variety, designated production area grade, winery reputation, oak barrel usage time, market circulation, etc.

1. Production region level

The price difference between the listed chateaus on the left bank of Bordeaux, France and ordinary AOC wines is significant, with Burgundy Grand Cru wines usually several times more expensive than village level wines. Italian DOCG grade red wine is generally higher than IGT table wine, and the price difference between Spanish Rioja aged wine and new wine can reach ten times. The more unique the terroir conditions in the production area, the stronger the premium ability of the wine.

2. Vintage Value

Legendary vintage wines such as Bordeaux 1982 and 2009 continue to rise in price, while regular vintage wines may only be sold for a hundred yuan. The price of top-quality Burgundy Pinot Noir can reach tens of thousands of yuan, while products from the same winery in poorer vintages may be reduced by more than half. Wines with a vintage rating exceeding 95 often have a collection premium.

3. Brewing Standards

Handmade single vineyard red wine is more expensive than mechanically harvested wine, and aged in oak barrels for 24 months is several times more expensive than stainless steel barrel wine. The price of wine certified by the biodynamic method usually doubles, and special processes such as low-temperature impregnation also increase costs. The strict screening criteria of Mingzhuang result in genuine liquor being more than five times more expensive than secondary liquor.

4. Brand Scarcity

The annual production of Roman é e-Conti is only 6000 bottles, resulting in over 200000 bottles per bottle, while the annual production of Lafite's official brand of 200000 bottles is still in short supply. The limited production of niche wines by garage wineries has a significant premium, while industrialized mass-produced wines are difficult to exceed a thousand yuan. Old aged liquor from famous villages often fetch sky high prices at auctions.

5. Aging Potential

Barolo with strong tannins needs to be aged for 10 years before it is suitable for drinking, and the price difference between new wine and aged wine can reach 300%. After 20 years of aging in Bordeaux's second estate, the price doubles, while ready to drink table wines need to be consumed within three years. The longer the recommended aging period given by wine critics, the greater the potential for wine appreciation.

When making daily purchases, you can observe whether the production area label on the wine label is specific. The smaller the legal production area range, the higher the quality. The weight of the bottle and the embossing process reflect the cost investment, and heavy-duty bottles are mostly used for high-end wines. The length and texture of cork stoppers can indirectly reflect the sincerity of the winery, and long cork stoppers are often seen in good wines that need to be aged. It is recommended to choose based on personal taste preferences. A hundred yuan level table wine is sufficient to pair with daily dishes, and for important occasions, you can choose a famous liquor with clear grading. When storing, pay attention to maintaining a constant temperature and avoiding light. Red wine with strong tannins can be better displayed by decanting it appropriately.