Vintage chart is a reference table that summarizes the general growing conditions and perceived quality of wine vintages by region. Charts may use numerical scores, descriptive ratings or broad categories such as excellent, good or challenging. They are intended as a guide to regional vintage variation, not as a definitive assessment of every producer or bottle.
Vintage assessments may take into account weather during flowering, fruit set, summer growth, harvest conditions, rainfall, temperature, disease pressure and grape ripeness. The importance of each factor varies by region and grape variety. A difficult vintage in one region may be favourable in another.
Use the chart as a starting point when researching a wine, especially when considering mature bottles or regions with variable climates. Then assess the producer, vineyard, appellation, grape variety, storage history and the specific wine. Skilled producers can make excellent wines in challenging years, while a highly rated vintage does not guarantee every bottle will be outstanding.
Example: a vintage chart may describe Bordeaux 2010 as highly regarded and 2013 as more challenging, but individual estates and appellations can differ significantly within each year.
Vintage chart summarizes conditions and general performance across a region and year. Wine rating evaluates a specific wine or bottling. The two are related but answer different questions.
Chef’s note: use vintage charts alongside tasting notes and producer information. For restaurant purchasing, taste the actual wine before committing to a pairing or cellar selection.
This term is one of hundreds covered in depth across OCS courses, learning paths, and 1-on-1 coaching with Chef Eric.
