Selecting the Best Wine to Age for a future Anniversary

What better way to celebrate an anniversary than sharing a well aged bottle of wine and reminiscing about the journey together. Selecting a bottle of wine that has the potential to get better with age, while not as daunting as picking a partner in life, can pose some challenges for those unfamiliar with the world of wines. In this article, we will explore the art of selecting wines to age for future anniversaries, ensuring that each bottle becomes a cherished memento of enduring love.

1. Personalize the Selection:

   Look for wines from regions that hold sentimental value or seek out wineries that have significance to the relationship. Was a special wine served at the wedding? Was there a romantic vacation to a particular winery or wine region? Was the wedding or honeymoon at a winery? Choosing a wine with a personal connection will add an extra layer of significance to any anniversary celebration.
   
   

2. Consider taste preferences:

   While technical aspects play a vital role in selecting a wine to age, personal preferences should not be overlooked. Consider the flavors and styles you and your partner, or the couple you are gifting to, enjoy. Do you prefer a little bubbly (see our article on aging Champagne), robust reds, dry whites, or something sweet for dessert? Tailoring your selection to your unique tastes and sentimental value will enhance the experience when the time comes to celebrate.
   
   

3. Understand the Basics of Aging Wine:

   Aging wine is a process that involves allowing the wine to mature and develop over time. Kind of like a relationship! Not all wines are suitable for aging, and it's essential to choose wines that possess the necessary qualities to improve with age. Generally, full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux blends, and Syrah, are often excellent choices due to their structure, tannins, and aging potential. Additionally, certain white wines, like Chardonnay and Riesling, can also develop beautifully when aged for shorter periods. Look for wines from reputable producers and regions known for producing age-worthy bottles
   
   

Charts are meant as a general guide. Wine sold at retail can be enjoyed now. Certain varieties and vintages can vary greatly.

1. Consider the Vintage:

   The vintage of a wine refers to the year in which the grapes were harvested. Vintage variations can significantly impact a wine's aging potential and overall taste. Grapes harvested in a dry year compared to a wet year from the same vine can have a vastly different flavor, even for those of us with an undiscerning palate. While some years produce exceptional wines that are meant to age gracefully, others may be more suitable for immediate consumption.
   
   

2. Opt for Premium and Special Wines:

   Wine meant for an anniversary celebration calls for a premium and special wine that reflects the significance of the occasion. Consider including prestigious cuvées, reserve wines, or limited-edition bottles from renowned wineries. These wines often possess exceptional aging potential and can become prized possessions as they mature. They also add an extra layer of exclusivity and elegance to the anniversary celebrations.
   
   

3. Seek Expert Advice:

   If the last few steps seem a little daunting, then this next tip is for you! We love to support small, local businesses (like us) and they tend to be very knowledgeable, helpful and customer service oriented. Seek out a local wine merchant, winery or even a restaurant with a sommelier who can provide valuable insights based on your preferences and budget.
   
   

4. Pick the right wine to do the time:

   Designate certain bottles for the suggested opening dates; keeping in mind the optimal aging duration for each wine. A wedding anniversary wine box is a great way to do this! This will ensure each wine is enjoyed at its peak, and each anniversary is celebrated with a perfectly aged bottle that has reached its full potential. One fun and easy alternative - buy identical bottles to be enjoyed over time to see how the flavor develops and changes as each anniversary passes.
   
   

CONCLUSION
Selecting a wine to age for a future anniversary can be a fun process that combines a little knowledge, intuition, and a lot of personal sentiment. By personalizing the selections, considering taste preferences, understanding the basics of aging, considering the vintage, seeking out expert help if needed, and designating the right wine for future celebrations, you can pick out bottles that will become a treasured part of any anniversary celebration. Remember, the anticipation of opening a well-aged bottle of wine will only add to the magic and romance of the moment, making it a treasured experience.