Global Food & Wine Network

California Wine Aftertaste

Aftertaste of a wine is usually an important factor in rating a wine. It is often referred to as the finish or a lingering taste of the wine when there is no more contact with the palate.

Why is it that a lot of California wines, whether inexpensive or pricey, have this certain distinctive aftertaste, that some people are used to and think is good, but many find it unpleasant and repellent.

Why is it that when you introduce a pleasant and settling wine with a clean nonexistent aftertaste to people, they always almost compliment it. This includes even the people who don’t mind the aftertaste of the California wines.

Lets take Kendall Jackson Merlot from Napa valley, California and compare it to Red Diamond Merlot from Washington state. Kendall Merlot is harsh on the palate and has a typical California wine aftertaste. Red Diamond is smooth with a clean finish. They are both Merlots, but which one have you seen more on the shelves of your local markets, and which one is more famous? Kendall Jackson, right?! Why people drink the Kendall more than the Red Diamond?

Is it because these people are just set on their California wines and do not see any reason to try anything else, or is it because their palates just function differently, and even when they enjoy a smooth wine with a clean finish, they compliment it and go back to what they were drinking before?

These are some questions that are very difficult to find real answers to. Probably because people are just so different in taste and culture.

However, we can conclude one thing and that is: There are two categories of people, the ones that prefer harsh and tannic wines, and those who prefer smooth and clean wines.