What is a second wine?
More than just second choice
In the world of wine, there are many terms and concepts that can be confusing for newbies. One of these terms is "second wine." But what exactly is a second wine, and why are these wines so special? In this blog post, we will explore the concept of second wine and explain its importance in the world of wine.
definition of a second wine
A second wine is a wine produced by a prestigious winery, but made from grapes not used for the main wine (also known as the first wine). These grapes often come from younger vines or from plots whose grapes do not meet the strict quality criteria for the first wine. The second wine thus offers an excellent way to immerse yourself in the world of a prestigious winery without having to pay the high prices of the first wine.
The creation of second wines
The practice of making second wines originated in Bordeaux, where many of the most famous châteaux, such as Château Latour , Château Margaux and Château Mouton-Rothschild, produce a second wine. The idea behind it is simple: to ensure the quality of the first wine, less perfect grapes or those from younger vines are made into a separate wine. This allows winemakers to reserve their best grapes for the first wine, while creating a high-quality wine that still reflects the character of the estate.
Examples of second wines from well-known wineries in Bordeaux:
- Le Petit Mouton from Château Mouton-Rothschild
- Les Forts de Latour from Château Latour
- Pavillion Rouge of Château Margaux
- Carruades de Lafite from Château Lafite-Rothschild
- Arômes de Pavie from Château Pavie
- Petit Lion from Château Léoville las Cases
By the way: some winemakers in Bordeaux also produce third wines, such as Château Latour with its third wine “Pauillac”.
Why are second wines important?
Access to quality: For many wine lovers, second wines offer an excellent way to immerse yourself in the world of a prestigious winery. They allow you to enjoy wines from top-notch producers without having to pay the exorbitant prices of the first wine.
Early enjoyment: While many first wines take years or even decades to reach full maturity, second wines are often more accessible and can be enjoyed sooner, making them ideal for wine lovers who don't want to wait.
Value for money: Since second wines are usually more affordable than their more prestigious siblings, they offer excellent value for money, allowing you to enjoy high-quality wines without breaking your budget.
Discover variety: Buying second wines also offers the opportunity to try different vintages and styles. This can be particularly exciting and help deepen your personal interest in a winery.
Conclusion
Second wines are more than just a "second choice"; they are a valuable addition to the world of wine and offer an excellent opportunity for wine lovers of all experience levels. Whether you are an experienced wine collector or simply looking for a fine wine for a special occasion, understanding and appreciating second wines can broaden your perspective on quality wines.
Next time you are in a wine shop or attending a wine tasting, remember: a good second wine could be exactly what you are looking for! Take the opportunity to discover the variety and quality of these fascinating wines - you might be pleasantly surprised!
