Serving wine at the optimal temperature is an important detail that can completely transform the tasting experience. From the subtle fruit notes to the complex aromas imparted by the type of wood in which the wine was aged, each wine requires the right temperature to reveal its true potential. Here are some useful tips to ensure that every glass of wine you enjoy is perfectly tempered.
According to the wine convention, as mentioned on the Revino platform, white and rosé wines are served chilled, while red wines are served at room temperature, a rather vague term. It’s worth noting that this is just a convention – not strictly adhering to it might actually enhance your enjoyment.
Optimal serving temperatures:
- Dry white and rosé wines: 7-12°C
- Sweet, fortified white wines, sparkling wines, champagne: 6-8°C
- Light red wines: 14-16°C
- Full-bodied red wines: 16-18°C
White and rosé wines
White and rosé wines are best served chilled, but not excessively so. The ideal temperature for white wines varies between 7-12°C, depending on the type. Lighter white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, should be served at lower temperatures, around 7-10°C, to maintain their freshness and acidity. More full-bodied whites, like Chardonnay, are served at slightly higher temperatures, between 10-13°C, to allow their complex aromas to fully develop.
Rosé wines, being similar in style, enjoy the same temperature ranges, ideally between 7-12°C. To achieve these temperatures, chill the wine in the refrigerator for about two hours or in an ice bucket for approximately 30 minutes.
Sparkling wines
Sparkling wines, including champagne, are served at even lower temperatures than white wines, between 6-8°C. These low temperatures help maintain carbonation and highlight freshness. To quickly chill a bottle of champagne, place it in an ice bucket with water for 20-30 minutes.
Red wines
Contrary to common belief, red wines are not served at room temperature, especially if it’s too warm. The ideal temperature for red wines varies between 14-16°C. More full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, benefit from slightly higher temperatures, between 16-18°C, to reveal their rich aromas and velvety tannins.
If a red wine is too warm, you can quickly chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving or in an ice bucket.
Sweet wines
Sweet wines, whether white or red, are best served at lower temperatures, between 6-10°C. This helps balance their sweetness and highlight delicate aromas.
Why serving temperature matters
Serving wine at the right temperature is essential for discovering and fully enjoying its complex aromas. Each type of wine reveals its unique characteristics only at the optimal temperature. If too warm or too cold, the wine loses its aromas, and its taste can become bland and unpleasant.
Wines served above 20-21°C risk emphasizing the alcohol more, which can mask the wine's aromas and flavors.
On the other hand, if the wine is served too cold, it cannot reveal all its properties. Low temperatures inhibit aromas, making the wine's taste less expressive. If wine is stored in the freezer and freezes, it will lose its organoleptic qualities permanently.
It’s also important to note that even wine used for cooking should be at an appropriate temperature when added to dishes. Using wine that is too warm or too cold can affect the final taste of the food, altering the balance of flavors undesirably.
Maintaining the optimal temperature for wine not only enhances the tasting experience but also protects the wine's integrity in the long term. Using special wine refrigerators or portable coolers can be very helpful in maintaining the ideal temperature, whether enjoying a glass at home or at an outdoor event. This way, you can enjoy all the nuances and subtleties the wine has to offer, turning every glass into a special experience.
General tips for maintaining temperature
To keep wine at the optimal temperature during serving, you can use accessories such as wine coolers or cooling sleeves. Also, avoid exposing wine bottles to direct light and heat, which can negatively affect the quality of the drink.
Serving wine at the right temperature is essential for enjoying all the nuances and aromas it has to offer. With a little attention and preparation, every glass of wine can become an exceptional experience, revealing all the chosen wine's qualities and subtleties.
15/05/2024
