What causes white wine to become darker as it ages?

White wine doesn't typically become darker as it ages. In fact, the opposite usually happens: white wine tends to become lighter with age.

Here's why:

* Oxidation: As white wine ages, it undergoes oxidation. This process causes the color pigments to break down, resulting in a lighter hue.

* Loss of Color: Some white wines are deliberately made with a darker color to compensate for color loss during aging. However, this loss is usually gradual and doesn't make the wine significantly darker.

However, there are a few exceptions:

* Oaked wines: Some white wines are aged in oak barrels, which can impart a slight golden or amber color. This is especially true for Chardonnay and other white wines that undergo malolactic fermentation.

* Certain grape varieties: Some white grapes naturally have a darker hue, and their wines may retain some color as they age.

In general, if a white wine appears significantly darker with age, it's likely a sign of spoilage or improper storage.

Let me know if you have any other wine-related questions! 🍷