A wine is generally considered aged or mature once it is at least five years past its vintage. During this stage, harsh tannins soften, and primary fruit flavors evolve into "tertiary" notes like leather, earth, and cedar. Key Varieties for Ageing:
Though they may begin to "mellow" around age 3 to 5, they remain active throughout their lives and require daily mental and physical exercise to prevent boredom.
Australia produces several world-class wine varieties that are specifically celebrated for their ability to age and reach a "mature" state, developing complex new flavors.