The Art of Cellaring: Which Wines to Age for Your Perfect Cellar Collection

For wine enthusiasts, there’s something truly special about opening a perfectly aged bottle that has been stored for years, revealing complex flavours that can only develop with time. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your wine cellar, knowing which wines to cellar is key to building a collection that will bring joy for years to come. At Wine Simple, we offer a curated selection of wines ideal for aging. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the art of cellaring wines and recommend some top choices for your collection.

Why Cellar Wine?

Cellaring wine is the process of storing wine under optimal conditions to allow it to age gracefully. Over time, certain wines develop more complex flavours, smoother textures, and a deeper, richer profile. Here’s why cellaring wine is a worthwhile investment:

1. Enhanced Flavour: Aging allows the wine’s tannins to soften and the flavours to meld together, creating a more balanced and nuanced taste.
2. Increased Value: Well-cellared wines often increase in value over time, making them not only a joy to drink but also a potential financial investment.
3. Personal Satisfaction: There’s a unique pleasure in opening a bottle you’ve carefully stored for years, knowing that it has reached its peak.

Which Wines Are Best for Cellaring?

Not all wines are suitable for long-term aging. When choosing wines to cellar, consider the following characteristics:

1. Tannin Levels: Wines with high tannin content, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, are generally good candidates for aging, as the tannins soften over time.
2. Acidity: Wines with higher acidity tend to age better, as acidity helps preserve the wine’s freshness as it matures.
3. Alcohol Content: Wines with moderate alcohol content (usually between 12-14%) often age better than those with very high alcohol levels.
4. Balance: Well-balanced wines, where no single component (tannins, acidity, fruit, alcohol) overpowers the others, are more likely to improve with age.

Our Top Picks for Cellaring

At Wine Simple, we offer several exceptional wines that are perfect for aging. Here are some of our top picks:

• Barossa Valley Shiraz: Known for its robust tannins and deep fruit flavours, this Shiraz from Barossa Valley is an excellent choice for cellaring. With time, its bold character will mellow, revealing layers of spice and dark chocolate.

• Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon: This Cabernet Sauvignon offers the perfect balance of tannins, acidity, and fruit, making it a prime candidate for aging. Over time, expect to taste richer, more developed notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and leather.

• Hunter Valley Semillon: While Semillon is often enjoyed young, this Hunter Valley classic can also age beautifully. With time, the wine develops a complex honeyed and toasty character, making it a unique addition to any cellar.

• Yarra Valley Pinot Noir: Though Pinot Noir is generally lighter in tannins, this Yarra Valley selection is well-structured and can develop beautifully over 5-10 years, gaining earthy and savoury notes alongside its fruit.

How to Store Your Cellared Wines

To ensure your wines age gracefully, proper storage is crucial. Here are some tips for cellaring your wines:

1. Temperature Control: Store your wines at a consistent temperature, ideally between 12-15°C. Avoid fluctuations, as these can damage the wine.
2. Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of around 70% to prevent the corks from drying out, which can lead to oxidation.
3. Light Protection: Keep your wines in a dark environment, as light can cause premature aging.
4. Stable Position: Store bottles on their sides to keep the cork moist, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to seep in.

Conclusion

Building a wine cellar is not only an investment in wine but also in the experiences and memories that will be made when you open those perfectly aged bottles. At Wine Simple, we offer a range of wines that are ideal for cellaring. Whether you’re looking for a robust Shiraz, a classic Cabernet Sauvignon, or a unique Semillon, we have the perfect wines to start or expand your collection.

Explore our selection of cellaring wines today and start planning your future wine experience.