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When you hear the term reserve wines, a few things come to mind: luxury, sophistication, and exceptional quality.
Some of the best wines in the world are reserve wines, which is why we’re often happy to pay a higher price for a bottle.
But what exactly are reserve wines, and what elevates them above the rest?
Let’s explore their origins, characteristics, and the undeniable allure they hold for wine connoisseurs worldwide to help you understand.
What are reserve wines, and how are they produced?
Reserve wines are high-end, higher quality wines that are carefully crafted in a centuries-old wine production process.
The concept of reserve wines can be traced back to Old World wine regions like France and Italy, where esteemed winemakers would set aside their finest batches for the social elite and special occasions.
As the wine industry grew, this tradition evolved with it. Winemakers around the world have adopted the practice of designating (or reserving) select wines as reserves to highlight their superior quality and craftsmanship. The limited quantities in which these high quality wines are produced is one of the reasons reserves are more expensive.
Unlike other wine classifications, which are regulated by specific criteria like region or grape variety, the term ‘reserve’ doesn’t have a universal standard. Instead, reserve wines are known for extracting the unique essence of each winery, reflecting their unique artistry and expertise in creating the perfect bottle.
Reserve wines are crafted from select, premium grapes that undergo a specific aging process. They’re aged longer than standard wines to allow the grapes to ferment and develop into something truly spectacular.
Tasting profiles of reserve wines
Reserve wines are all about quality.
Complex, rich, and full-bodied, their distinct flavors and aromas are the heightened quality that are given wines that are designated “Reserve”.
While different reserve wines will have different tasting notes, one thing holds true across the board: they are the wineries most prized and wuality focused fruit. Many reserve wines, like that of Azur, are the first press juice. First press juice is the juice that is the most flavorful and rich, full of complexity and dynamic flavors.
Reserve wines get better with age as their character develops and intensifies, offering an even more exceptional tasting experience as the years go by.
There’s no denying how deliciously extraordinary reserve wines – like our 2019 Azur Reserve – really are.
The different types of reserve wines
Reserve wines come with a variety of different labels.
Reserve wines can be red, white, or sparkling, from different wine regions, and made from different grape varieties.
So, how do you understand your wine label? Let’s explore the different types of reserves.
- Grand Reserve: Highlighting the winery’s production, from their finest grapes to particular winemaking techniques.
- Special Reserve: These wines are crafted with extra care and attention to detail, usually undergoing even longer aging processes using specific grapes.
- Reserve Select: Often chosen by a winery to showcase their very best wines.
- Reserva: Reservas are produced in Spain and Portugal, and have to adhere to specific aging requirements regulated by law.
Reserve wines can be produced anywhere, but some of the most notable regions are Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Rioja, Tuscany, Burgundy, and Champagne.
Pairing a reserve wine with food
Known for their incredible depth of flavor, reserve wines are the perfect addition to a delicious meal. No matter how simple or complex the dish, pairing it with a glass of reserve wine is always sure to delight!
Their broad-spanning and unique flavor profiles lend themselves perfectly to a vast variety of cuisines, from traditional French cooking to experimental Asian-fusion.
To pair a reserve wine with a meal, consider the wine’s characteristics and how it will complement or contrast the flavors and textures on the plate.
For example, a full-bodied Napa Cabernet Sauvignon goes great with something rich like steak, while a crisp Chardonnay might harmonize better with fresh seafood.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to find your personal preference. The bottom line is, a bottle of reserve wine is a sure way to enhance any dining experience.
Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party or visiting a friend for a catch-up over a couple of glasses, reserve wines can be enjoyed by all kinds of palates and for any occasion.
At Azur Wines, we offer delicious bites to perfectly balance your wine tasting experience in our Downtown Napa tasting room. Make sure to book early to ensure your tasting experience of our Reserve wines and other wines that our supporters and members love!
Should you invest in reserve wines?
While they may be a little more expensive than other bottles on the shelves, reserve wines are always a good investment.
Firstly, they’re produced in lower quantities and appreciate with age. This means they actually add to the value of your wine collection over time, so you can’t really go wrong with picking up a few special bottles that catch your eye.
But beyond monetary investment, whether you’re looking to add to your collection, or you want to pick up a bottle for your upcoming dinner party, reserve wines are absolutely worth it for the experience alone. It’s the finer things in life that really enhance the experience.
As some of the best wine in the world, reserve wines are a welcome addition to any table. You can’t put a value on having the perfect bottle of wine at hand for any occasion – or simply for when the mood strikes you to indulge in a little luxury.
They’re a fantastic way to impress your guests, show someone how much you care, or take your meal to the next level with the perfect bottle of wine.
Explore our range of exceptional wines at Azur Wines
Taking inspiration from French winemaking practices and the ideal terroir of our Napa Valley surroundings, our intention is to craft an exceptional bottle of wine whether it’s the Reserve or the Rose.
Our wines are the perfect blend of purity and intensity, so you know you’ll find something you love.
Shop our range of high-quality wines online or visit our Downtown Napa tasting lounge to sample our remarkable wines while soaking up the vibrant wine scene in California’s wine country.