How to distinguish the authenticity of dry red wine

Distinguishing the authenticity of dry red wine can be comprehensively judged from five aspects: wine label information, wine color, taste and aroma, sediment observation, and purchase channels.

1. Wine Label Information

The wine label of genuine dry red wine is printed clearly, including complete production information such as origin, winery name, vintage, alcohol content, etc. Fake wine often has spelling errors, vague or missing information, and some counterfeit wine labels intentionally imitate well-known brands but with rough details. Legitimate imported wine also needs to have a Chinese back label, indicating the importer and food hygiene license number.

2. Wine Color

High quality dry red wine has a natural and transparent color, with young red wine appearing purple red and aged wine turning brick red. Fake wine may use artificial colors that are too bright or cloudy. When tilting the glass to observe the edge color bands, real wine may have gradual layers, while fake wine may have cracks or uneven coloring. Drip the wine onto a tissue, the real wine will spread evenly, while the adulterated fake wine will leave obvious color circles.

III. Taste and Aroma

Authentic dry red wine has a complex fruity or oak barrel aged aroma, with smooth tannins on the palate and a long-lasting aftertaste. Fake alcohol may have a pungent alcohol or saccharin sweetness, with a thin or sweet taste. A small amount of baking soda can be added to the wine. Genuine wine will turn blue purple due to its natural anthocyanin content, and the color change of blended wine is not significant.

4. Observation of Sediments

Aged dry red wine may exhibit natural tartaric acid crystals or pigment precipitation, which is a normal phenomenon. If there are abnormal flocculent substances, suspended particles, or sediment with strange colors in fake wine, be alert to the possibility of blending. Part of the fake wine will be overly filtered to cover up its poor quality, resulting in an abnormally clear and sediment free body.

Fifth, purchase channels

Choose regular supermarkets, brand direct stores, or authorized dealers to avoid the low price trap. Imported alcohol can be requested to view customs declaration forms and inspection and quarantine certificates. When shopping online, look for official flagship stores and be wary of products with prices significantly lower than market prices. If you find that the cork is dry, inelastic, and the printing is blurry after opening the bottle, you need to be vigilant.

It is recommended to choose a reputable brand for daily consumption of dry red wine, store it at a constant temperature and avoid light, and drink it as soon as possible after opening the bottle. Moderate consumption of authentic dry red wine is beneficial for cardiovascular health, but the daily intake should not exceed 150 milliliters. If suspected counterfeit alcohol is found to have been purchased, it can be reported to the market supervision department and proof of purchase can be provided. Developing basic wine appreciation skills and purchasing through legitimate channels is the most effective way to avoid counterfeit wine.