If you’ve ever poured a glass of red and noticed something collecting at the bottom of the bottle or in your glass, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get—and the good news is, it’s completely normal.
In many cases, sediment is actually a sign of a well-made wine.
Why does sediment form?
As wine ages, natural compounds begin to bind together and fall out of suspension. This is especially common in red wines, and even more so in wines that have been handled gently in the winery, with minimal filtration.
Rather than stripping everything out, many winemakers choose to preserve texture, flavour and structure—which can mean a little sediment remains.
The different types of sediment
Tannin sediment
This is the fine, dark material you’ll often see in older red wines. Over time, tannins (which give red wine its structure) link together and settle at the bottom of the bottle.
Tartrates (“wine diamonds”)
These small, crystal-like formations come from naturally occurring tartaric acid. They’re completely harmless and often seen as a sign of minimal intervention winemaking.
Heavier or softer sediment
In wines that are aged on lees or bottled with minimal filtration, you may occasionally notice a thicker, softer sediment. While it’s safe, it can be a little less pleasant in the glass.
Why some wines have more than others
Sediment levels can vary depending on how the wine is made and the conditions of the vintage. For example:
- Wines made with minimal filtration tend to retain more natural material
- Structured wines with higher tannins will typically throw more sediment as they age
- Drier growing seasons can lead to smaller berries and more concentrated tannins
All of these factors can contribute to what you see in the bottle over time.
How to handle it
The easiest way to deal with sediment is simple: decant your wine.
Pouring the wine gently into a decanter allows you to separate the clear wine from the sediment, while also helping the wine open up in the glass. Leaving the last small portion behind in the bottle is usually enough.
A sign of authenticity
While sediment might seem unusual if you’re not expecting it, it’s often a reflection of a less processed, more thoughtfully made wine.
So next time you spot a little something at the bottom of the glass, you’ll know—it’s all part of the experience.
CONTINUE READING
