Wine tastes better with age because of a complex chemical reaction occurring among sugars, acids and substances known as phenolic compounds. In time, this chemical reaction can affect the taste of wine in a way that gives it a pleasing flavor. ... White wine also has natural acidity that helps improve its flavor over time.

Does wine get sweeter with age?

Sometimes when drinking older or aged wines there is the perception that the wine is sweeter on your palate. It is just that—a perception—as the aging process doesn't affect the sugar content of a wine. It is the same after 10 to 15 years as it was at bottling.

How does age affect the taste of wine?

Generally, during the process of maturation and aging, the most obvious change occurs in the color of the wine. In white wine, the color becomes golden, and later, can turn to brown if the wine is aged too long. ... The taste of the wine also changes. Astringent and harsh tastes are replaced by smoother, rounder tastes.