Oxidation susceptibility: a property, not an age

The standard

A composition-based oxidation propensity is derived from measurable values, not presumed from the vintage. Free sulfur and pH value determine how much protection is actually effective.

Criteria

• Free, effective sulfur limits the reaction
• The pH value decides which share of the sulfur protects
• Phenol content and dissolved oxygen raise the propensity
• It is measured, not inferred from age

Distinction

Oxidation susceptibility ≠ oxidation: the one is the propensity, the other the process that has occurred. Oxidation susceptibility ≠ controlled maturation: maturation uses oxygen in a directed way, susceptibility means the undirected exposure to it. A composition-based oxidation propensity therefore describes a risk, not a result.