What are the three primary components of wine?

The three primary components of wine are indeed water, alcohol, and organic acids. Water constitutes the largest portion of wine, typically making up about 80-90% of its volume. Alcohol is the second major component and results from the fermentation process, where yeast converts sugars present in the grape juice into alcohol. This not only contributes to the wine’s body and warmth but also plays a significant role in its overall stability and flavor profile.

Organic acids, such as tartaric and malic acid, are crucial for the wine's structure, taste, and balance. They contribute to the wine's acidity, which affects its freshness and aging potential. The presence of these acids helps to prevent spoilage and enhances the wine's ability to pair with food.

Understanding these three components is essential for anyone studying wine, as they form the foundation of your tasting notes and inform decisions regarding wine production, blending, and pairing.