Reference No.: 205
Title: The 5 Essential Components of Wine - A Beginners Guide
Author: Fill of Pinot
Primary Topic: Farming
Year: 2023
URL: https://youtu.be/SYQk0wj0hE0?si=0kErAptdRCifQ6y-
My notes on this reference #
Summary
- 🍷 Sweetness – All wine starts with grape juice, which contains natural sugars. The sweetness level depends on the fermentation process, where yeast converts sugar into alcohol. Sweet wines retain more sugar, while dry wines have little to none. Pro tip: Observe the “legs” in your glass—thicker, slower-falling legs indicate higher sweetness.
- 🍋 Acidity – Acidity gives wine its tartness and freshness. High-acid wines feel crisp and zesty, while low-acid wines are described as “flabby” or “flat.” White wines generally have higher acidity than reds, especially those from cooler climates.
- 🍇 Tannins – Tannins come from grape skins, seeds, and stems, and are most noticeable in red wines. They add structure and astringency, drying out the mouth. Tannins also come from oak barrels, contributing to complexity and aging potential. Over time, tannins soften, making aged wines smoother.
- 🥃 Alcohol – Alcohol in wine is produced when yeast ferments sugar. Alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 8-15%. Higher alcohol content results in a fuller body and warming sensation, while lower alcohol levels make the wine feel lighter. Climate influences alcohol levels—warmer climates produce higher-alcohol wines.
- ☁ Body – The body of a wine is determined by factors like alcohol, sugar, tannins, and extract levels. Wines can be light, medium, or full-bodied. A light-bodied Sauvignon Blanc is comparable to water, while a full-bodied Syrah resembles thick cream in texture.
Insights Based on Numbers
- 🍷 1-5g of residual sugar – Dry wines contain little to no residual sugar, giving them a crisp taste.
- 🍷 35g+ of sugar – Dessert wines contain significantly more sugar, resulting in a rich, sweet profile.
- 🍷 8-15% ABV – The alcohol content of wines varies, with higher ABV wines offering a fuller body and more warmth.