I was recently enjoying a good glass of red wine and commented that it had good complexity. I was then asked “What is complexity in a wine?
While there is no standard definition and it can be subjective, here’s a brief description and some key characteristics of a “complex” wine:
Complex wines typically have multiple layers of flavors, aromas, and textures that evolve as you taste it. They aren’t just one-dimensional or simple. They may start with rich fruity notes, but as you sip, a complex wine can also show earthy, spicy, or floral notes. A complex wine can continue changing and offering new things, often making it more interesting the longer you sip it.
Key Characteristics of a “Complex” wine:
Big or full flavors, aromas and mouth-feel textures
Various flavors and sensations; multi-layered
Combinations of flavors including fruit, spices, flower notes, earthiness or herbs
Rich flavors
Good balance of alcohol, acidity, tannin and residual sugar - nothing sticks out
A long finish of flavor
Often exhibit the quality and craftsmanship of the winemaker’s ability to ferment and age a wine
The grapes are from specific well-regarded wine regions (e.g., Bordeaux, Napa)
So to sum it up, “complexity” can mean different things to different people, but complex wines typically exhibit multiple flavors as well as flavor diversity. Cheers!