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
varietal
A wine made principally from one variety of grape and carrying the name of that grape. |
vegetal
An undesirable characteristic, wines that smell and taste vegetal are usually made from unripe grapes. In some wines, a subtle vegetable garden smell is pleasant and adds complexity, but if it is the predominant character, it is a major flaw. |
velvety
A textural description and synonym for lush or silky, a velvety wine is a rich, soft, smooth wine to taste. It is a very desirable characteristic. |
vinification
The process of making wine, specifically, pressing the grapes and fermenting the must. |
viscous
Viscous wines tend to be relatively concentrated, fat, almost thick wines with a great density of fruit extract, plenty of glycerin, and high alcohol content. If they have balancing acidity, they can be tremendously flavorful and exciting wines. If they lack acidity, they are often flabby and heavy. |
viticulture
The science, art and study of grape growing. |
volatile
A volatile wine is one that smells of vinegar as a result of an excessive amount of acetic bacteria present. It is a seriously flawed wine. |
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