Do all wines need to be complex?

I was at a winery stand during a professional wine fair. A lady approached me to taste rosé wines with a maximum RRP of 4-5€. I showed her an excellent Bobal varietal from Castilla, which offers unbeatable value for money. Her response was that it wasn’t complex enough. I was taken aback. I was almost tempted to call the wine police to escort her out. But the truth is, she’s not the only one with this belief. This made me wonder: Is complexity always expected, even at this price point? And more broadly, must all wines be complex? After all, life itself is intricate enough.

A glimpse into wine complexity

Complexity in wine is a multifaceted concept that delves into the spectrum of flavors and aromas a wine can offer. A complex wine provides a symphony of tastes and scents, each playing its part in the overall experience. This depth and intricacy stem from a myriad of factors. The type of grape, the characteristics of the soil it’s grown in, the specific climate conditions of the vineyard, and the nuanced techniques used in the winemaking process all contribute. It’s a dance of flavors, textures, and the harmonious balance they achieve together.

Many of the world’s renowned wines, such as those from Burgundy or Champagne, are celebrated for their complexity and and longevity. Beyond their potential to age, complex wines exhibit a balance where the structural components, be it tannins, acids, or sugars, complement rather than compete with each other.

While fruitiness can be a hallmark of a good wine, it often denotes simplicity. In contrast, complex wines transcend mere fruitiness, offering a richer tapestry of characteristics.

The essence of a great Wine

What truly encapsulates the essence of a great wine? Let me tell you that greatness, like beauty, is subjective. While many might argue it’s about the complexity or the age, the heart of the matter lies in the experience it imparts. A wine’s primary role is to be delightful and enjoyable.

Not everyone possesses a palate trained to discern intricate notes or subtle flavors, nor should they need to in order to appreciate a glass. For instance, my friends aren’t on the hunt for a special vintage wine aged for decades. They desire a wine that accentuates our conversations, one that flows seamlessly as we engage and enjoy each other’s presence. On family days by the pool, I prefer something refreshing over a wine with layered aromas.

Current wine trends focus on accessibility and daily enjoyment, appealing to a wider audience who might not always seek complexity in every sip.

Branding’s Role

In the competitive wine market, the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words” has never been more relevant. Wineries must now pay equal attention to what’s outside the bottle as they do to its contents. The branding, encompassing both the visual representation and the naming, plays a pivotal role in a wine’s market reception. It’s crucial also that the branding aligns with the wine’s character. For instance, wines that exude freshness should ideally be paired with modern packaging, breaking away from traditional labels, and conveying that sense of vivacity and modernity.

In Conclusion

While wine complexity can spark debates, the core of wine is enjoyment. Whether seeking a complex flavor profile or a simple refreshing sip, the aim is pleasure. The environment, occasion and company can be as influential in a wine’s appreciation as its taste. Sometimes,  those of us immersed in the world of wine can become overly analytical, overlooking the joy a bottle should bring. Ultimately, wine is about the memories and moments it creates. What’s your take on this?