Glossary
Select a letter from the list below to view
other definitions.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W
hard
Wines with abrasive, astringent tannins or high acidity are said to be hard. Young vintages of Rhône wines can be hard, but they should never be harsh. |
harsh
If a wine is too hard it is said to be harsh. Harshness in a wine, young or old, is a flaw. |
hedonistic
Certain styles of wine are meant to be inspected; they are introspective and intellectual wines. Others are designed to provide sheer delight, joy, and euphoria. Hedonistic wines can be criticized because in one sense they provide so much ecstasy that they can be called obvious, but in essence, they are totally gratifying wines meant to fascinate and enthrall-pleasure at its best. |
herbaceous
Many wines have a distinctive herbal smell that is generally said to be herbaceous. Specific herbal smells can be of thyme, lavender, rosemary, oregano, fennel, or basil and are common in Rhône wines. |
herbes de Provence
Provence is known for the wild herbs that grow prolifically through- out the region. These include lavender, thyme, sage, rosemary, and oregano. It is not just an olfactory fancy to smell many of these herbs in Rhône Valley wines, particularly those made in the south. |
hollow
Also known as shallow, hollow wines are diluted and lack depth and concentration. |
honeyed
A common personality trait of specific white Rhône wines, a honeyed wine is one that has the smell and taste of bee's honey. |
hot
Rather than meaning that the temperature of the wine is too warm to drink, hot denotes that the wine is too high in alcohol and therefore leaves a burning sensation in the back of the throat when swallowed. Wines with alcohol levels in excess of 14.5% often taste hot if the requisite depth of fruit is not present. |
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