What is a vintage?
A vintage is the year the grapes were harvested. Every bottle of non-blended wine carries a vintage on its label. The year matters because weather during the growing season, sunshine, rainfall, temperature, timing of frost, directly shapes the quality and character of the wine.
Why vintage variation exists
Vines are agricultural. A wet summer encourages rot and dilutes flavour. A drought concentrates the grapes but can cause vine stress. A late frost in spring destroys buds. A September heatwave accelerates ripening beyond the ideal point. A cool, dry, long autumn, the ideal, allows slow, even ripening that produces balanced, complex grapes.
This variation is more pronounced in cool climates (Burgundy, Champagne, Germany) than in warm ones (Napa Valley, Barossa Valley), where the weather is more consistent year to year.
New World vs Old World vintage variation
In Bordeaux or Burgundy, vintage quality varies enormously. A great Burgundy vintage (2015, 2019, 2023) differs dramatically from a difficult one (2017, 2021). Knowing the vintage helps you choose wisely and understand why a wine tastes the way it does.
In Napa Valley or the Barossa, the climate is more reliable. Vintages still matter at the top level, but everyday wines show less variation. This is one reason New World wines are often more consistent but sometimes less interesting.
Non-vintage wines
Champagne houses typically blend wines from multiple years to achieve a consistent house style. The NV (non-vintage) designation means the wine contains wine from more than one harvest. This is not a lesser product, it is a deliberate choice to prioritise consistency over vintage character.
Port, Sherry, and Madeira also rely on blending across years for their character.
Drinking windows
Every wine has an ideal window when it tastes its best. A basic Chianti might be best in years 2-5. A great Barolo might not reach its peak for 15-20 years. Vintage year plus drinking window tells you whether to open a bottle now or wait.
