The finish of a wine refers to the lingering taste or sensation left on your palate after you’ve swallowed (or spit) the wine. This final impression is a key indicator of a wine’s quality and complexity. A wine with a long, complex finish is often considered superior to one with a short or simple finish.
There are different types of finishes, including:
- Length: A wine with good length has flavors that persist on the palate for several seconds or even minutes after swallowing.
- Texture: Some wines leave a lasting impression of texture, such as silkiness or creaminess in the case of well-structured white wines or reds with integrated tannins.
- Flavor Complexity: A complex wine will often evolve on the palate after swallowing, with multiple layers of flavors unfolding over time. For example, you might initially taste fruit, followed by earthy or spicy notes as the finish lingers.
It can be influenced by a wine’s acidity, tannins, alcohol content, and sweetness. Generally, wines with more balance and structure tend to have a longer and more pleasant finish. In contrast, a wine with a harsh or bitter finish may be considered unbalanced or lacking in quality.
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