Vintage
German: Jahrgang Also known as: Vintage, Weinjahrgang
The year in which the grapes of a wine were harvested. That year's weather influences ripeness, acidity and aroma.
The vintage states in which calendar year the grapes were picked, not when the wine was bottled. Because sun, rain and temperature differ every year, wines from the same producer vary in body, acidity and ageing potential.
For wines carrying a vintage, a prescribed minimum share of the grapes must come from the stated year. Light, fresh white wines are usually drunk young, while structured reds can gain depth with age. Non-vintage sparkling wines are often blended from several harvests.
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