Master your wine vocabulary with this glossary of curated wine terminologies and sound like a pro. While tasting wine across washington state, here are some terms you may come across. Closed underdeveloped wines that do not display aroma or flavor. When a wine feels almost sharp in your mouth, with lots of acid and structure. The legal term for wine that is less than 14% alcohol. Glossary of wine terminology wine terms wine dictionary. The list is a group effort by some of our favorite sommeliers and.
If you need help downloading the printable version, check out these helpful tips related articles. Wine tasting terms sound like a wine pro with these wine words. This alphabetical list is a guide to the words most commonly used by us professionals often with a blithe lack of precision in connection with both the flavours and the dimensions of wine. The wine world has more than its fair share of technical terms and phrases.
We have two lists to help you familiarize yourself with wine terms. Some of these descriptions are culled from the wine school of philadelphia dictionary. A wine terms list in alphabetical order created by southwest wine guide for all wine lovers and students of wine. In terms of wine making it is the quantity of grapes that a vineyard can produce per hectare 2. A glossary of winetasting terms hernder estate wines. The cork was tainted, which allowed for improper bottling and aeration. You know what wines you like but how do you describe them. Ill go over basic wine terminology in this wine glossary. Tasting flight refers to a selection of wines, usually between three and eight glasses, but sometimes as many as fifty, presented for the purpose of sampling and comparison. Wine terms in english and spanish spanish wine lover.
It lists key general terminology used within the wine trade and includes descriptions related to viniculture, winemaking, grape varieties, wine tasting, and more. Italian wine term to describe an offdry or slightly sweet wine with medium body. Oct 20, 2014 using wine tasting terms to get what you want besides referring to wine ratings, tasting terms are the only way we can quantify what a wine tastes like before we buy it. Watery wine that is lacking in flavor and tasting thin or dilute. This page is wine glossary of terms, wine dictionary with definitions for all the important wine terms, wine speak and wine phrases you need to know in a simple, easy to use and easy to remember format. In small levels it adds to the complexity of flavor and in high levels it causes the wine to spoil. Tasting descriptors finally understand what people mean when they describe a wine as dry with a vegetal aftertaste. The method that grapevines use in the transport of certain nutrients through the plant by adhesion of ions or molecules on the surface of. Pertains to the acid level in both red and white wines. The method that grapevines use in the uptake of nutrients by the roots in the soil. Buttery a smell and taste sensation found in better white wines. The sensation of a spicy finish on a wine is a sharp burning sensation that could be compared to the feeling in your nose you get from eating wasabi or horseradish.
In wine terms, when the state, province or country controls the import and. A balance of acids lactic, malic or tartaric that contributes to the quality of the wine. Apr 16, 2020 when it comes to wine, theres a lot to be said for speaking the language. Certain terms crop up frequently to describe the flavor, aroma and texture of wine. Dont miss our full guide to wine for everything you need to know about wine, from grape varietals and growing regions to tasting, serving and pairing. Wine tasting terms can be confusing to those of you who are learning how to taste wine. The ideal is for these components to be in perfect proportion to one another, making for a wellbalanced wine. For terms specific to viticulture, winemaking, grape varieties, and wine tasting, see the topic specific list in the see also section below. Our wine glossary has more than 150 wine terms defined, ensuring youll soon master the language of wine. When you get to tasting time, youll use or hear the common terms that describe the wine s characteristics. Knowing the lingo can go a long way to making you feel more comfortable diving into the delicious world of wine.
Wines under 14% alcohol can be labeled table wine and the winery does not have to state the actual alcohol content on the label. Whether delving into winemaking or just seeking to learn more about fine wines, these terms will broaden your understanding. This is a difficult task which only trained professionals can really properly perform as a young wine can be unpredictable and deceptive to the inexperienced. Wine tasting terms wine tasting with the london wine academy.
Acetic a defect in wine that has been exposed to air. If you need help downloading the printable version, check out these helpful tips. When it comes to wine, theres a lot to be said for speaking the language. Forward wine tasting term indicating fruitiness in a wine and is ready to drink.
Glossary, descriptions and terms acidity the liveliness and crispness in wine that activates our salivary glands balance continue readingglossary of wine terms. Sometimes when you pop a bottle of wine, youll discover aromas or flavors that arent very pleasant. Having a basic knowledge of wine words and wine terms will allow you to enjoy a wine tasting more. A winetasting term indicating the aroma or taste of flowers, mostly used to describe white wines. Wine terms a glossary of wine terminology southwest. If you attend wine tastings or read a wine magazine you will experience all sorts of new descriptors for how to describe wine aromas and flavors. Additional wine and winemaking terms as presented by the california wine club. From office parties, holiday parties, or a night out with friends familiarize yourself with some of the following wine terms. This glossary of viticultural terms list some of terms and definitions involved in growing grapes for use in winemaking. Describes a wine s structure, concentration and body, as in a tightly wound wine. A wine that is highly acidic with hints of bright fruit and a clean finish. Amontillado is a category of sherry which begins aging in the same manner as a fino sherry, with a flor yeast cap to protect from oxidation and keep the wine freshtasting, but amontillado is then exposed to oxygen, allowing the wine to darken, becoming richer than a. Using wine tasting terms to get what you want besides referring to wine ratings, tasting terms are the only way we can quantify what a wine tastes like before we buy it. Describes wine that has a moldy flavor or nose to it.
Glossary of wine tasting terms wines and winemaking. The definitive glossary of wine tasting terms acidic. Wine tasting terms and what they really mean wine enthusiast. A complete glossary of wine terminology with hundreds of easy to understand definitions. Learn how to use wine tasting terms the right way to get the wine you want. If there is an excessive amount of acetic acidity, the wine will have a vinegary smell and be a flawed, acetic wine. In this glossary of wine terminology, youll find important and interesting definitions of wine terms. A tasting term referring to a style, rather than a smell or taste, generally marked by lively acidity and light juiciness. Acetic acid all wines contain small amounts acetic acid or vinegar, normally the amount is small and not noticeable to taste or smell. The length of the aftertaste is perhaps the single. All wines contain acetic acid, or vinegar, but usually the amount is quite smallfrom 0.
Acid aids in the crispness and longevity of a wine. The use of wine tasting descriptors allows the taster to qualitatively relate the aromas and. As opposed to a vertical which denotes a tasting of the same winerys wine from many different vintages. Sep 04, 20 boost your wine vocabulary with just a handful of key terms, outlined in our chart above. A tasting term to describe a wine that has a freshly fermented flavor. Print the pdf version for a printable copy of the most common wine terminology to use at your next wine tasting. Woody wine that has an excessive oaky presence, typically caused by overaging the wine in the wine barrel or cask. Wine glossary of terms here are some basic terms to know if you are looking to join the ranks of wine connoisseurs, the wine industry, or just trying to impress a girl. Glossary of viticultural terms, glossary of winemaking terms, wine tasting descriptors, list of grape varieties.
Whether related to the way wine is made or the words that are used to describe it, the following glossary aims to cover some of the more commonly used words, phrases, acronyms and tasting terms. Wine terminology wine tasting terms glossary wine of the. Ill also be adding more wine terms over time, so be sure to check back often. When you get to tasting time, youll use or hear the common terms that describe the wines characteristics.
Then, gather friends and organize a winetasting party of your own to get the conversation started. Winelovers can add to their vocabulary as they explore the wide array of wines originating from many wineproducing regions of the world. We hope the following glossary of wine terminology is helpful and. Yeasty the breadlike smell of yeast, most commonly noticed in champagne. Wine terminology wine tasting terms glossary wine of. An abbreviation for the german wine trockenbeerenauslese. Learn about all the different wine tasting terms to describe wines and other terminology with our comprehensive glossary definitions. Barrel the oak container used for aging wine and fermentation. The abbreviation of alcohol by volume, listed by percent on a wine label e. Learning what these words mean and also how to use them yourself is a very powerful skill to have in order to buy exactly what you want. Acid there are four kinds of acids found in wine tartaric, malic, lactic and citric.
Wine tasting terms sound like a wine pro with these wine. Initials for anything but chardonnay or anything but cabernet. French oak the classic wood flavors of vanilla and cedar that come from wine stored in wood barrels. For those who identify with the latter, this glossary of wine tasting terms will get your vocabulary off to a roaring start. Mar 31, 2015 vinous literally wine like, in terms of liveliness and acidity. The definitive glossary of wine tasting terms business insider. Understanding wine terminology and vocabulary will help anyone navigate the world of wine making more fully. A combination of various wines or grapes blended together. Vinous literally winelike, in terms of liveliness and acidity.
The glossary of wine terms lists the definitions of many general terms used within the wine industry. The creation of wine by fermentation of grape juice. Wine terms a glossary of wine terminology southwest wine. Amontillado is a category of sherry which begins aging in the same manner as a fino sherry, with a flor yeast cap to protect from oxidation and keep the wine fresh tasting, but amontillado is then exposed to oxygen, allowing the wine to darken, becoming richer than a fino but still lighter than an oloroso. Here is a glossary with some terms that may help along the way. Tasting terms, excerpts from the glossary of bottlenotes guide to wine. Juicy, sharp, balsamic, austere, peppery, lean, edgy, lively wines are sometimes described as spicy and this trait can be more intense in the finish of a wine.
Though the tasting will be unlike anything you experience from a bottle, it will be fun and memorable. While tasting wine across washington state, this wine glossary can help. Volatile acidity va acetic acid is the volatile acid in wine that turns wine to vinegar. A wine tasting term indicating the aroma or taste of flowers, mostly used to describe white wines. Glossary of viticultural terms, glossary of winemaking terms. Top wine tasting terms to know and how to use them wine folly. This is one of of italys finest and most expensive wines so, not surprisingly. A toxic organic chemical compound that is produced in our bodies in order to metabolize. A wine tasting of many different wines from the same vintage, either of one winery or various producers from a given region.
Wine terminology can be confusing and learning it can be a daunting task. Tannin acts as a natural preservative that helps wine age and develop. Words have meaning, but their definitions can be elastic, especially when it comes to wine terms and tasting notes. Forward winetasting term indicating fruitiness in a wine and is ready to drink. Useful wine terms and wine tasting words you need to learn. The controlled appellation system used in the united states. A wine tasting term referring to harmony among the components of a wine. Once you get the hang of it, and find a few words that. Aftertaste the flavor that lingers in your mouth after you swallow the wine. These terms and usage are from karen macneils 2001 edition of the wine bible. We created this glossary of wine terminology for all wine lovers, especially our wine students. Tasting wines directly out of the barrel before theyve been bottled. Not only for impressing dinner party guests, getting your head around some key terminology means youll be able to accurately describe wine youre tasting, as well as better understand whats being recommended.
Wine tasting can be intimidating sometimes, but it doesnt have to be. Jun 19, 2017 watery wine that is lacking in flavor and tasting thin or dilute. The first is a glossary of wine tasting terminology. Any wine over 14% alcohol must state the alcohol content on the front label and may not use the term table wine on the label. Defined as a specified grapegrowing region distinguished by geographical features. Fresh describes the lively fruity acidity of a good young wine. Heather mobley photography 1 and abel valdenebro 2 and 3. The practice of moving wine from one container to another for aeration or clarification, leaving sediment behind racy. These often tell you the wine is off or tainted in some way. Smells literally of a barnyard manure, wet hay, game, fur, leather but in a good way. Glossary, descriptions and terms acidity the liveliness and crispness in wine that activates our salivary glands. Wines, no matter how well made, contain quantities of acetic acidity that have a vinegary smell. One of the amazing things about wine is how a beverage that starts out as just grape juice takes on.
In this wine dictionary, you can find the most important wine terms and their definitions. Utilize this glossary if youre at a loss of words to describe the flavor and aroma of a wine. Boost your wine vocabulary with just a handful of key terms, outlined in our chart above. The purpose of this vocabulary is to help you understand the most commonly used wine tasting terms. Read about wine tasting terms, buy course gift vouchers and book wine courses. A process by which wine is poured into a decanter to allow it to breathe before drinking. Whether delving into wine making or just seeking to learn more about fine wines, these terms will broaden your understanding. Look up and find out about all those unusual terms and fancy adjectives wich are often to describe the taste of wine. Glossary of wine terminology the ultimate wine dictionary. Our wine glossary is an informative resource of key wine terms. The tasting of a grape or wine, often from the barrel to discern a future wine s flavor profile and characteristics. The london wine academy is the industry leading wine school for wine tasting. Wine glossary of terms, wine dictionary, wine definitions.
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