In a sector as large and diverse as wine, it can be difficult to distinguish a quality wine from an ordinary one, especially if you are not familiar with it. Beyond personal tastes and preferences, there are common quality standards.
At Maius Viticultors we reveal the most important aspects that you should take into account to evaluate the quality of a wine.
Prior considerations
Origin: knowing the origin of the wine is one of the main factors to take into account when making a good choice. Designations of origin are an indicator of the quality and reputation of the wines that are made in the area, often following traditional methods that guarantee the quality and authenticity of the product. The Priorat Qualified Designation of Origin (DOQ Priorat) is one of the most distinguished designations of origin in Spain, along with the DOQ Rioja.
Grape variety: there are countless grape varieties with different characteristics that provide distinct flavors and textures to each wine. Likewise, the varieties are often accompanied by the designation of origin, since each DO has a number of authorized grape varieties. In the DOQ Priorat, for example, the most cultivated varieties are Grenache and Carignan, both present in our wines Maius Barranc de la Bruixa and Maius Assemblatge. In the case of white grapes, Grenache Blanc and Macabeu stand out, varieties of our wine Maius blanc.
Senses
A simple and practical way to evaluate the quality of a wine is to pay attention to the different factors associated with the senses.
Sight: through sight we can observe the color of the wine, its intensity and clarity. The color helps us identify the age and type of wine, that is, if we are facing a young wine, an aged wine, etc. A bright and transparent wine often indicates concentrated flavors and careful preparation.
Smell: the aroma of the wine provides us with a lot of valuable information about the wine in front of us. A good wine offers a palette of complex aromas and subtle nuances that express its distinctive personality. Floral, citrus, tropical and white or black fruit notes are usually the most easily identifiable scents.
Taste: the flavor and texture in the mouth indicate the character of the wine and allow us to get an overall idea of its quality. A good wine must be balanced in terms of acidity, sweetness, alcohol and tannins (in red wines). In addition, it must be persistent in the mouth, so that the flavor of the wine is maintained once it has been swallowed.