With more than 7.5 million hectares of vineyards, wine plantations are second only to cereals in terms of agricultural production, with over half of the world's plantations located in Europe. The quality of elite wine is evaluated based on specific criteria formed with the development of viticulture, recognizing the best brands and producers. The following conditions are required to create wine that boasts a deep and rich flavor:
- Region and peculiarities of grape cultivation
- Climate and weather conditions of each year
- Level of sugar content in berries
- Perfection of the technology used
The taste and bouquet are considered the main organoleptic indicators, which determine the sweetness, astringency, balance, variety, and richness of flavors. When evaluating wine, experts also assess the transparency of the drink, which depends on the presence of colloidal particles, as well as the color, which is affected by natural coloring compounds like anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols.
While ordinary wines go on sale just three months after the processing of the grapes, vintage wines are aged for at least 18 years, and collectible wines are aged for six years in bulk containers and another six years in bottles. To avoid purchasing fakes, it is recommended to buy elite wine from specialized boutiques and stores.
The value of the wine that a connoisseur chooses for tasting is influenced not only by its type, but also by brand recognition, the popularity of the region where the vine is cultivated, the technology of production, the uniqueness of the terroir, and the price of the land.
