When it comes to sparkling wine, the terms “vintage” and “non-vintage” aren’t just technical labels – they reflect the philosophy behind the bottle. From the pursuit of perfection in a single year to crafting a consistent experience year after year, these classifications highlight two distinct approaches to winemaking. Let’s dive deeper into what makes these wines so unique and why your choice might depend on your mood or the occasion.
What Makes a Wine “Vintage”?
In wine terminology, “vintage” signifies that all the grapes used in the wine come from a single year’s harvest. This approach is often reserved for exceptional seasons when winemakers decide that the growing conditions were particularly favourable, producing grapes that reflect the unique terroir and climate of that time.
These wines are typically aged for longer periods, often several years, allowing them to develop a deeper complexity. This extended maturation process adds layers of flavours, such as toasted brioche, roasted almonds, and dried fruit, alongside the wine’s natural brightness. Each bottle becomes a snapshot of a specific time and place – a story of the vineyard in a bottle.
For those who love surprises and value uniqueness, single-year wines are a treasure trove. No two releases are alike, even from the same producer. One year might offer a fuller, more structured profile, while another brings lighter, more delicate notes. It’s like collecting postcards from different years of a vineyard’s life.
What Is a Non-Vintage Wine?
Non-vintage (NV) sparkling wines, on the other hand, are all about consistency. They’re crafted by blending wines from multiple years, combining the best qualities of different harvests to achieve a uniform taste profile that remains true to the producer’s style.
I often compare non-vintage wines to a global brand like Coca-Cola. No matter where you are or when you open a bottle, the taste is reliably familiar. That’s the genius of non-vintage wines – winemakers aim to create a signature flavour that loyal drinkers can return to time and again without surprises.
Non-vintage wines might not have the exclusivity of their single-year counterparts, but they have their own charm. They’re approachable, consistent, and often more affordable, making them the go-to choice for casual celebrations or when you want to enjoy a sparkling wine without overthinking it.
The Role of Blending in Non-Vintage Wines
Blending lies at the heart of non-vintage winemaking. Wines from different years are meticulously combined to balance acidity, sweetness, and depth. Reserve wines – aged wines held back from previous years – are often used to add complexity and richness to the blend.
This method ensures that even if the weather in one year was less than ideal, the producer can maintain their hallmark flavour. It’s a clever way of hedging against nature’s unpredictability while also delivering a product that consistently delights.
When to Choose Single-Year vs Non-Vintage
Deciding between the two often comes down to context and personal preference.
•For a Special Occasion: Single-year wines are the showstoppers. Their complexity and unique character make them ideal for memorable celebrations. If you’re marking a milestone or pairing wine with a sophisticated meal, one of these bottles will elevate the experience.
•For Everyday Enjoyment: Non-vintage wines are the reliable companion for spontaneous celebrations or relaxed evenings. Their consistent profile and often more accessible price point mean you can pop a cork without hesitation.
The Debate: Expression vs Consistency
Ultimately, the choice between single-year and non-vintage wines boils down to what you’re looking for in your glass. Are you drawn to the idea of exploring the nuances of a specific year, or do you prefer the reassuring familiarity of a well-crafted house style?
For me, there’s something thrilling about the variability of single-year wines – the chance to taste how a specific season shaped the grapes and how the winemaker decided to tell that story. But there’s equal comfort in knowing that a bottle of non-vintage Champagne from a producer like Bollinger or Pol Roger will taste just as you remember it, no matter when or where you open it.
A Few Recommendations
•Top Single-Year Wines to Try: Look for renowned bottles like Dom Pérignon, Krug Vintage, or a Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs. These showcase the elegance and complexity of a single year’s harvest.
•Great Non-Vintage Options: Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial NV or Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV are excellent examples of consistent, crowd-pleasing blends that deliver every time.
Whether you’re a fan of single-year or non-vintage styles, both have their place in the sparkling wine world. One is a time capsule, capturing the essence of a specific year; the other is a masterclass in consistency, ensuring every sip feels like catching up with an old friend. And when in doubt? Try both. After all, life’s too short to limit yourself to just one kind of sparkle.
