Based on a taster’s years of experience with this type of wine, the drink window suggests when the wine is likely to be at its best. It typically covers a range of years or will state “drink now.” Adjust for your preference if you know you like your wines on the younger or older side—aged wines are an acquired taste—or if your personal experience with the producer or vineyard in question differs.
“Drink now” means that the taster doesn’t believe this wine will improve with any additional bottle age, and will be most enjoyable when it still has its youthful flavors and structure—not that it must be drunk immediately. Even the most approachable wines will usually deliver pleasure for several years past the vintage date.