The Cellar & Vine
How Oxidation, Esterification, and Polymerization Turn Grape Juice Chemistry into Aged Wine
Wine ages through three slow chemical reactions: oxidation, esterification, and polymerization. These processes transform young wine's profile into complex tertiary aromas, altered color, and a smoother mouthfeel by altering compounds like phenolics, acids, and alcohols.
Marco Alves·October 29, 2026