Ullage (wine)

Vin jaune 13

Col Solare red band barrels

Margaux bottles

Bordeaux Fill Levels

Ullage refers to the space between the wine and the top of the wine bottle after the sealing process, typically with a cork or a screw cap. This space is crucial for the aging process of wine, as it allows for a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine, influencing its development and maturation over time. The concept of ullage is not only applicable to wine but also to other areas such as the oil industry and space technology, where it refers to the empty space left in tanks or containers that hold liquid. However, this article focuses on ullage in the context of wine.

Importance of Ullage in Wine

Ullage plays a significant role in the wine aging process. The presence of oxygen is necessary for the slow oxidation of wine, which can enhance its flavors and aroma. However, too much oxygen can lead to oxidation, spoiling the wine. Therefore, the amount of ullage in a bottle can be an indicator of the wine's condition, especially in older wines. A bottle with minimal ullage suggests that the wine has been well-sealed and may have aged gracefully, whereas excessive ullage might indicate potential spoilage or improper storage conditions.

Ullage and Wine Storage

The level of ullage in a wine bottle can change over time due to factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and the quality of the cork. It is generally recommended to store wine bottles horizontally, especially those sealed with cork. This position helps keep the cork moist, ensuring a tight seal and preventing excessive ullage due to evaporation or leakage.

Ullage Measurement

In the context of wine collecting and auctioning, the ullage level is a critical factor in assessing a bottle's value. Common terms used to describe ullage levels in wine bottles include:

- In Neck (IN): The wine level is in the neck of the bottle, indicating minimal ullage and often seen in younger wines or those stored under ideal conditions. - Very Top Shoulder (VTS): The wine level has slightly descended into the top shoulder, which is typically acceptable for older wines. - Top Shoulder (TS): The wine level is at the top shoulder, which may be concerning for wines younger than 20 years but acceptable for older vintages. - Mid Shoulder (MS): The wine level has fallen to the mid-shoulder, often indicating potential issues with the cork or storage conditions, and may affect the wine's quality. - Low Shoulder (LS): A significant level of ullage, where the wine level is at the low shoulder, often suggests that the wine has been compromised and may not be suitable for consumption or collection.

Conclusion

Ullage is a critical aspect of wine storage and aging, offering insights into the wine's condition and potential quality. Proper management of ullage through appropriate storage conditions can help preserve the integrity of the wine, allowing it to age gracefully and maintain its desired characteristics.