Yield in viticulture refers to the amount of grapes harvested per unit area, often measured in tons per acre or hectoliters per hectare. Managing yield is crucial for balancing grape quality and vine health, with lower yields generally associated with higher quality wine.
Glossary
Acetic acid is a key component that contributes to the complex flavour profile of wine, recognized primarily for imparting a vinegary taste when present in high concentrations. Naturally occurring through the fermentation process, it is essential in small amounts for the wine’s overall balance, adding to its character and depth. […]
Brix is a scale used to measure the sugar content in grapes and wine, indicating the potential alcohol level once fermented. It’s a crucial measurement in winemaking, helping winemakers decide the optimal time to harvest the grapes. Higher Brix levels usually mean the grapes are riper, potentially leading to wines […]
Crianza is a Spanish wine classification term indicating that the wine has been aged for a minimum period, both in oak barrels and in the bottle, before release. For red wines, the requirement is usually a total of two years, with at least six months in oak. Crianza wines are […]
DOCG stands for “Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita,” the highest classification for Italian wines, representing a guarantee of the wine’s origin from a specific region and adherence to strict quality standards. This designation covers aspects such as grape varieties, yield limits, winemaking practices, and aging requirements. Wines with the […]
Fining is a winemaking process used to clarify and stabilize wine by removing suspended solids and compounds that could cause haziness or off-flavours. Fining agents, which can be animal-based, mineral, or synthetic, are added to the wine to bind with the unwanted particles, making them easier to remove. The choice […]
Harvest in winemaking refers to the picking of grapes at the end of the growing season when they have reached optimal ripeness. The timing of the harvest is crucial, as it affects the sugar, acidity, and flavour profiles of the grapes, ultimately influencing the style and quality of the wine. […]
Late Harvest wines are made from grapes left on the vine longer than usual to achieve higher sugar levels. This process concentrates the sugars and flavours, often leading to sweeter and more flavourful wines. Late Harvest wines can range from slightly sweet to intensely sweet dessert wines, showcasing rich, complex […]
Merlot is a popular red wine grape variety, known for its soft, ripe, and elegant flavours. It is used as both a single varietal wine and a blend component, especially in Bordeaux wines. Merlot wines typically feature flavours of black cherry, plums, and herbal notes, with a smooth texture and […]
Oaked refers to wine that has been aged in oak barrels, which imparts distinct flavours such as vanilla, toast, and spice, as well as influencing the wine’s texture and tannin structure. The extent of these characteristics depends on factors like the type of oak, the age of the barrels, and […]