Wines aged in bottle (7–18 months)

Theageing in bottle for a period of between 7 and 18 months is a stage of mid-season ripening, ideal for wines that have already completed their ageing in wood, stainless steel or concrete, and that need more time to to reach full harmony and stability before going on the market.

During this period, the wine evolves slowly in the absence of oxygen, refining its structure, aromatic balance and softness on the palate.

Characteristics of bottle ageing (7–18 months)

  • Duration: from 7 to 18 months, depending on the grape variety and the style

  • Nothing imparted from outside → internal, natural evolution

  • It encourages:

    • Integration of the aromatic components

    • Smoothing of the tannins (in the reds)

    • Colour stabilisation

  • Ideal for wines intended for medium ageing

Style of wine produced

Appearance Result
Colour More stable, sometimes with slight evolved nuances
Aromas Greater definition, with light tertiary notes appearing
Palate Balanced, rounded, persistent
Longevity Excellent for 5–10 years, depending on the type

Ideal grape varieties and types

  • Reds: Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Aglianico, Nero d’Avola

  • Structured whites: Chardonnay, Verdicchio, Fiano

  • Metodo Classico sparkling wines (post-disgorgement)

  • Riserva wines or special selections that call for further maturation

Recommended pairings

  • Beef tagliata, stewed meat

  • Lasagne and baked pasta dishes

  • Aged cheeses (pecorino, toma)

  • Roast poultry with herbs

  • Rich chocolate or meditation desserts (for vintage sparkling wines)

Why choose a wine aged in bottle (7–18 months)

For those who love wines already harmonious and ready, but with depth and structure
To best express the complexity of the grape variety and the terroir
For aslow, natural development with no artifice
For bottle collections meant to be drunk within a few years

In bottle (7–18 months): My personal top three

  • 1
    Savigny-Lès-Beaune Rouge 2020 - Le Grappin

    Savigny-Lès-Beaune Rouge 2020 - Le Grappin

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune, France
    Discover this wine
  • 2
    Sassella “Stella Retica” 2017 - Ar.Pe.Pe.

    Sassella “Stella Retica” 2017 - Ar.Pe.Pe.

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Italy, Lombardy, Valtellina
    Discover this wine
  • 3
    Savigny-Les-Beaune 1er cru “Les Lavières” 2021 - Chandon de Briailles

    Savigny-Les-Beaune 1er cru “Les Lavières” 2021 - Chandon de Briailles

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Burgundy, Côte de Beaune, France
    Discover this wine

All those I have tried