Wine Wisdom: 10 Common Wine Myths Debunked

By Melinda Myers | April 9, 2024

Wine has been a staple among humans for centuries, enjoyed by enthusiasts and novices alike. However, along with its rich history and culture, wine has also accumulated its fair share of myths and misconceptions. From the idea that older wine is always better to the belief that screw caps signify lower quality, let’s debunk ten common wine myths to separate fact from fiction:

Older Wine Is Always Better

While aging can improve some wines, not all wines benefit from prolonged storage. In fact, most wines are made to be consumed within a few years of their release. Only certain high-quality red wines with robust tannins and acidity are suitable candidates for long-term aging. For most wines, it’s best to follow the producer’s recommendations for optimal drinking windows. So, if you’ve bought a few bottles or received a wine subscription gift, there’s no need to hold off on popping the cork!

Bigger Price Tags = Better Wine

Price is not always an accurate indicator of wine quality. While some expensive wines are indeed exceptional, there are also plenty of reasonably priced wines that offer excellent value. Factors such as grape variety, winemaking techniques, and region can all influence a wine’s price. 

Screw Caps Signal Inferior Quality

Contrary to popular belief, screw caps are not a sign of low-quality wine. In fact, many high-quality wines – particularly whites and rosés meant for early consumption – are now sealed with screw caps to preserve freshness and prevent cork taint. 

Rosé Is Always Sweet

Rosé wines are made from a variety of red grape varieties and can range from bone-dry to slightly sweet. The perception of sweetness in rosé wines often depends on factors such as residual sugar levels, acidity, and winemaking techniques. 

White Wine Should Always Come Cold

White wine is typically served chilled; serving it too cold can mask its flavors and aromas. Over-chilling can dull the wine’s nuances and make it taste flat. To enjoy white wine at its best, it’s recommended to serve it slightly chilled, around 45-55°F (7-13°C), depending on the style of the wine. Allow the wine to warm up slightly in the glass to fully appreciate its complexity.

Red Wine Must Always be Decanted

Decanting can aerate young, tannic red wines, enhancing their aromas and flavors. However, not all red wines benefit from decanting. Lighter-bodied reds, older wines, and delicate Pinot Noirs may not require decanting and can be enjoyed straight from the bottle. 

Wine Legs Indicate Quality

The appearance of “legs” or “tears” on the inside of a wine glass is often associated with quality, but it’s actually a result of the evaporation of alcohol. While they can be visually appealing, wine legs are not an indicator of quality.

Swirling Wine is Pretentious

Swirling helps release the wine’s aromas, allowing you to fully appreciate its bouquet. It also introduces oxygen to the wine, softening tannins and enhancing flavors. Far from being pretentious, it is recommended to enjoy the sensory experience of wine fully.

All Wine Gets Better With Age

Only certain high-quality red wines with the right balance of tannins, acidity, and fruitiness are suitable for aging. Most wines are intended to be enjoyed within a few years of their release when their flavors and aromas are at their peak. 

Certain Wines Can Only Go With Certain Foods

While traditional wine pairings can enhance the dining experience, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to pairing wine with food. So feel free to experiment with different combinations and discover unique wine and food pairings that work for you. 

Cheers to debunking myths and discovering new wine experiences!