It seems like the common wisdom is that larger format bottles age better (longer?) than their smaller counterparts. First off, is that so, or is it more of a vanity? If they do indeed perform better over time, why is that? And to what degree?

For example, if you have a Cali Cab laying around, a nice ageworthy '97 like a Dominus that is pretty much just entering its peak now, how far off or behind are his big brothers?

More juice to oxygen ratio would be the first reason. But I've also wondered about the sheer amount of juice in the larger formats adding to concentration. Just a thought!

I think it varies by many variables...varietal, vintage, etc. Some people here will certainly know better than I.

I have always heard that large formats age longer becuase there is a higher wine to air ratio in the bottle. The magnum is supposedly the optimal bottle to put wine in. The very large formats can be hit and miss since the corks are usually hand cut and not quite perfect fits/air tight for the bottles.

quote:

Originally posted by jburman82:
I have always heard that large formats age longer becuase there is a higher wine to air ratio in the bottle. The magnum is supposedly the optimal bottle to put wine in. The very large formats can be hit and miss since the corks are usually hand cut and not quite perfect fits/air tight for the bottles.

No, they work! They're usually waxed, and those wax covered corks may be a nuisance, but I've never had a problem of air getting into the bottle!

I have heard air to wine ratio and surface area. Not sure if either ring true - but it sure seems like it makes sense.