Ullage

Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon, and wines in similar bottles

Base of neck or higher

If no fill level is indicated, that means that it is at the base neck or higher. We do not generally differentiate between levels that are in the neck since much of that difference can be due to variations in fills at the time of bottling. We consider anything that is in the neck to be a perfect fill level for any bottle of any age. However, if we have a rare, older bottle, such as a 1961 Latour that has a level of "base neck" or "into neck" we may mention that to emphasize the exceptional condition.

Very top shoulder

Indicates either a slightly low fill at the time of bottling and/or a slight natural reduction due to an easing of cork and evaporation through cork and capsule. This is a normal fill level for any wine more than 20 years old.

Top shoulder

On the high slope of the shoulder, this is an acceptable and normal fill level for wines 15 years of age and older. It is a very good fill level for wines 35 years of age and older.

Mid shoulder

Suggests ullage during the life of the wine due to easing of the cork and/or inconsistent storage conditions. Though this may be normal for a wine that is 40 years old or older, it is still risky as it may not be drinkable.

Low shoulder

This is a poor fill level for any wine. Unless it is an extremely rare collector's item or part of a complete case, we would not offer a wine with this fill level.

Burgundy, Pinot Noir and wines in similar bottles

Burgundy cannot be measured in the same manner as Bordeaux and Cabernet Sauvignon because of the slope of the bottle's shoulder. As a result, fill levels for Burgundy are measured in centimeters by looking at the space between cork and wine.

Two centimenters or less

Considered an excellent fill for any age and does not need to be mentioned.

Three centimenters or less

A perfectly normal fill for wines 12 years of age and older. It is an excellent fill level for wines 25 years of age or older.

Four centimenters or less

Considered a normal fill for wines more than 20 years old and excellent for wines more than 35 years old. However, it should be cause for concern in wines 15 years old and younger.

Five centimenters or less

Not uncommon in older wines of 30 years and more. However, at this level, some oxidation is likely to have occurred and the remaining wine may be fragile at best and undrinkable at worst.

Six centimenters or more

This is a poor fill level for any wine. Unless it is an extremely rare collector's item or part of a complete case, we would not offer a wine with this fill level.