How to Taste Aged Wines
Aging wine is one of the greatest joys of wine appreciation. With time, a wine’s character evolves, gaining complexity, depth, and unique flavours that simply can’t be rushed. But tasting an aged wine—especially a carefully cellared bottle like Peter Lehmann’s Margaret Semillon—requires a little know-how to get the best experience. Whether you’re opening a well-loved vintage from your collection or trying a mature wine for the first time, here’s how to truly appreciate what’s in the glass.
Step 1: Check the Bottle Condition
Before you even open the wine, take a moment to inspect the bottle. Older wines should be stored properly to ensure they age as intended. If you notice seepage or excessive ullage (the space between the wine and the closure), it might indicate that the wine hasn’t aged perfectly. But don’t judge too quickly—many wines, including aged Semillon, can still surprise you.
Step 2: Open with Care
Aged wines can be more delicate, so handle the bottle gently when opening. If you encounter any sediment, simply pour the wine carefully or strain it through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into a decanter.
Step 3: Decant or Not to Decant?
Decanting is often associated with bold reds, but aged white wines like Margaret Semillon can also benefit from it. Pouring the wine gently into a decanter helps separate any sediment and allows it to breathe. Margaret Semillon, with its crisp youthfulness when young and honeyed, toasty complexity when aged, often needs just 15–30 minutes in the decanter to fully open up.
Step 4: Observe the Wine
In the glass, aged Semillon takes on a deeper golden hue compared to its pale younger self. Tilt your glass against a white background to notice the colour evolution—this gives you a clue about its maturity and character.
Step 5: The Aroma Journey
One of the biggest transformations in an aged Semillon happens in the aromatics. What starts as zesty citrus and fresh-cut grass in its youth develops into richer notes of beeswax, toast, honey, and roasted nuts over time. Give your glass a swirl and take a deep breath. Don’t rush—older wines often take a little longer to fully express themselves.
Step 6: Savour the Flavours
Now for the best part—tasting! The acidity in Margaret Semillon allows it to age gracefully, creating a beautifully balanced wine with layers of complexity. Instead of bright citrus, you’ll find flavours of lemon curd, honeysuckle, and a touch of nuttiness. The texture becomes rounder, silkier, and more refined with time. Take small sips and let the wine coat your palate to truly appreciate its evolution.
Step 7: Pairing for Perfection
Aged Semillon is incredibly versatile at the table. Try it with fresh seafood, roasted chicken, or creamy pasta dishes. Its toasty, nutty notes also make it a brilliant match for aged cheeses like Gruyère or Comté.
Enjoy the Experience
Tasting aged wine isn’t just about the flavours—it’s about appreciating the journey a bottle has taken over the years. Peter Lehmann’s Margaret Semillon is a testament to the beauty of Barossa’s Semillon and the magic of patience. So, the next time you open a well-aged bottle, take your time, savour the moment, and enjoy the history in your glass.