Unpolished Grape 101: How to Read a Wine Label

Picture of Kiana Keys, DipWSET

Kiana Keys, DipWSET

Wine Educator & Translator

What Information is Printed on a Wine Label?

Old World Labels

European wines (France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Germany, etc.), will show information about where the wine was produced. Many labels will not have the varietal on the label.

New World Labels

Wines from all other countries including USA, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand display labels that align with their local laws. They often name the variety like “Chardonnay” or “Cabernet Sauvignon. They may also show the country, county, or have information about the family or vineyard.

Other Information on Labels

Description: What the wine tastes like

 

Quality designation: i.e., “Grand Cru,”

 

Aging Indications: i.e., Crianza, Gran Reserva

 

ABV: Alcohol By Volume Warnings: The risks of alcohol consumption

 

Certifications Listings: For example, “organic” or “sustainable” Identification: tracking for vineyard, plot or winery

Cheers!

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I’m Kiana Keys –
wine educator, wine translator, and the founder of Unpolished Grape. 

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