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The "right" time at which a wine has reached the optimal maturity in its development and promises the best possible drinking pleasure. The alternative term "drinking window" describes more clearly that it is not a question of an exact point in time, or naturally cannot be a question of an exact point in time, but rather a more or less longer period of time. However, this raises the question of whether and how this can be determined or predicted. In short, it can be assumed with a certain probability, but never exactly and not determined to the month and year.

In the case of simple red wine, rosé and white wine intended for quick consumption, the time of marketing is also the time of drinking maturity. In the case of better qualities, the time depends on the lifespan or shelf life. This generally differs between white wine, red wine and dessert wine. An important prerequisite for longevity is the development potential of the wine. Grape variety, vine care and reduced yield ("the less, the better") have a positive influence on this. The often used slogan "quality is created in the vineyard" is therefore justified. Nevertheless, a factor that should not be underestimated is the type of vinification or ageing.

Criteria for longevity

A high alcohol content contributes to longevity, which is obvious with fortified wines such as Malaga,...