You choose a bottle with your eyes - before your palate - and the label plays a key role in that process. Learning to read it doesn’t require the skills of a sommelier, just a bit of attention (and passion).
Some labels focus on evocative names, others on the winery’s story or on certifications. Some are packed with technical details, others reveal only the bare minimum. And some, with a single word, evoke a place, a season, or a winemaking style. Reading labels well means choosing more mindfully—and maybe learning something about the people and philosophy behind the wine.
Wine name and producer
The wine’s name can be poetic, symbolic, or linked to the grape or region. However, what often matters more is the name of the producer. Big wineries might feel reassuring but can lack personality. Smaller producers often have fascinating stories and wines that deserve attention. If the name is unfamiliar, look it up—quick research reveals whether there’s a serious project or just clever marketing behind it.
Denomination and classification
DOP, DOC, IGT—these codes reflect the wine’s link to its origin.
DOC (Controlled Designation of Origin) and DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) - which includes DOC and DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin) - follow strict rules about geography, grape varieties, and production methods.
IGT (Typical Geographical Indication) and IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) allow more freedom. This isn’t necessarily negative - some excellent wines choose to go beyond traditional regulations.
The importance of the vintage
The vintage indicates the harvest year, not bottling. It's not just a date, but a clue - especially for experienced drinkers who remember how that season went: a scorching summer, a rainy September, a small but high-quality harvest.
Young wines - like many whites, rosés, and fresh reds - should be enjoyed within a few years.
Aging wines reveal more over time, and vintage becomes a key to understanding them. Some years are legendary, others just decent.
Alcohol content, size, and lot number
Alcohol content reveals structure and intensity. Wines at 14%+ tend to be rich and full-bodied. A white or rosé at 11–12% is lighter and more approachable.
Bottle size affects aging: larger bottles preserve wine better. But for everyday drinking, the classic 0.75L is most practical.
The lot number ensures traceability - if a flaw is found, it's the first reference for producers.
Additional information
Many labels mention the grape varieties, vinification techniques, or organic/vegan certifications. Some even include QR codes that link to digital content, datasheets, or videos. On the back label, you might find storytelling or service suggestions (temperature, food pairings). Not always reliable, but often interesting.
What a label will never tell you
A label won’t tell you if the wine is good. It won’t talk about who harvested the grapes in the September sun or what happened in the cellar. And it won’t say if you’ll love it.
But it gives hints - about origin, treatment, and style. A wine label isn’t a code to crack, but a trail to follow. If you read it carefully, you get closer to the wine with greater awareness. You don’t need to know everything - just start asking the right questions and don’t be misled by surface impressions.