Glossary of Wine Terms

A minor red grape varietal, primarily found in Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines produced in the Rhône region of France.

Pronounced Val-po-lee-chella. A renowned regional D.O.C. red wine produced in the western part of the Monti Lessini hillsides north of Verona in Italy’s Veneto region.

A descriptor of wine that has a sweet, distinctive vanilla aroma. This is typically a characteristic of wine that has been aged in new oak barrels.

A characteristic of wine that has been aged in oakwood barrel staves. When present in minute amounts, it is an element in complex red wine that is prized by connoisseurs.

In reference to wine, the "varietal character" is flavor characteristic of a specific grape that is picked at optimum maturity.

Wine made from basically one variety of grape. The wine is labeled for the single grape variety or the most prominent grape variety used to produce the wine.

A descriptor of wines with undertones of earth and yeast (refer to “grassy”). If characteristic is pronounced, it is considered a flaw.

Pronounced vehr-deek-yo. A grape varietal, used in the production white wine, originating in the Marches region of Italy.

Most notably known as "Verdicchio". A grape varietal, used in the production white wine, originating in the Marches region of Italy.

Pronounced ver-naht-chah, the name is derived from the word “vernaculum”, the Latin term for indigenous.

Most notably known as "Cabernet Franc". A grape varietal, used in the production of red wine, originating in the Loire Region of France.

Most notably known as "Pinot Noir". A grape varietal, used in the production of red and sparkling wines, originating in the Burgundy region of France.

The tasting of wine from different years, but originating from the same winery. These wines are most often contiguous years.

Most notably known as "Vidal Blanc". A grape varietal used in the production of white wine.

Pronounced vee-dahl-blahngk. A grape varietal used in the production of white wine.

Most notably known as "Cabernet Sauvignon". A grape varietal, used in the production of robust red wines, originating in the Bordeaux region of France.

In reference to wine, "vigour" is the term used to describe the growth rate of a particular vine.

The term "doux" is a French descriptor of sweet wine. Wines that are "doux" are typically labeled "vin doux".

An unpleasant "nose" that presents itself when a bottle of wine is initially opened.

The operations and processes involved in the making of wine.

A descriptor of wine with admirable qualities, but nothing extraordinary. "Vinous" wine can also be described as dull.

Wine made from grapes that were harvested in a specific year. The date is denoted on the label of the wine.

Pronounced vee-ohn-yay. Grape varietal used in the production of white wine. Originating in the Rhône region of France, small but increasing amounts are grown in the United States (primarily California), Australia, and Brazil.

Most notably known as "Viognier". Grape varietal used in the production of white wine.

(1) The cultivation of grapevines especially for wine making. (2) The science of growing grapes.

Most notably known as "Merlot". A grape varietal used in the production of hearty red wine.

Descriptor of a wine that has a powerful, harsh attack on the palate. See “harsh”.

Pronounced voo-vray. A regional white wine from the Vouvray section of the Loire Valley in France.