How to read the level on a red wine label
Release time:
2024-07-18
Production regions. Generally, red wine from Old World regions (such as Europe) is rated higher than that from New World regions (such as Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, and the United States, among others).
The quality level of red wine can be determined by examining several key pieces of information on the wine label, including:
Production regions. Generally, red wine from Old World regions (such as Europe) is rated higher than that from New World regions (such as Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, and the United States, among others). 1
Château classifications. French wineries are primarily divided into four categories: Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC), Vin Délimité de Qualité Supérieure (VDQS), Indication Géographique Protégée/Highly Protected Designation of Origin (IGP/HDP), and Table Wine (VDT/Vino da Tavola). Among these, Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) wines represent the highest level, signifying superior quality and uniqueness. 12
Label information: Each bottle of red wine comes with a dedicated label that includes details such as the production region, winery, and measurement units. On labels of originally imported red wine brands, the standard measurement unit is typically deciliters (cl), rather than liters (l).
Numbers on the bottle. On bottles of originally imported red wine brands, you’ll find markings indicating both the bottle’s capacity and its diameter.
The tightness of the wine seal. On authentic red wine bottles, the wine seal on the cork can be rotated—this is a telltale sign for distinguishing genuine products from counterfeits.
International barcode. The international barcode on the back label can help identify the wine’s country of origin. 6
Alcohol content. An alcohol content typically of 13.5% or higher indicates a higher-quality wine.
Reserve. Wines labeled “Reserve” generally indicate higher quality.