Glossary
Clarification is a winemaking process used to remove suspended particles from wine, resulting in a clear and bright appearance. Methods can include settling, filtration, and fining, where substances are added to bind with and precipitate solids. Clarification not only improves the wine’s aesthetic but can also stabilize it, reducing the […]
En Primeur refers to the practice of purchasing wine early while it is still in the barrel, before it is bottled. This system is most associated with Bordeaux but is used in other wine regions as well. Buying En Primeur allows consumers to invest in potentially high-demand wines at possibly […]
Gewürztraminer is an aromatic white grape variety known for producing highly fragrant wines with notes of lychee, rose petals, and spices. Originating from the Alsace region of France and also grown in Germany, Italy, and New World regions, Gewürztraminer wines can range from dry to sweet and are appreciated for […]
IGT stands for “Indicazione Geografica Tipica,” an Italian wine classification that recognizes wines that do not meet the strict criteria of DOC or DOCG designations but are of high quality and represent a specific geographic region. IGT wines offer flexibility in winemaking techniques and grape varieties, allowing for innovation and […]
Méthode Champenoise is the traditional method of making Champagne and other high-quality sparkling wines. This process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, producing carbonation. The wine is then aged on its lees, contributing to complexity and depth of flavour, followed by riddling and disgorging to remove sediment. This labor-intensive […]
Neutral oak refers to barrels that have been used several times for aging wine and no longer impart significant oak flavours or tannins to the wine. These barrels provide the benefits of oxygenation without adding the strong vanilla, toast, or wood notes characteristic of new oak, allowing the wine’s fruit […]
Prosecco is a popular Italian sparkling wine made primarily from Glera grapes in the Veneto region. Characterized by its light, refreshing style with pear, apple, and floral notes, Prosecco is produced using the Charmat method, where secondary fermentation occurs in large steel tanks, preserving the wine’s freshness and fruitiness.
Pomace brandies are distilled spirits made from the pomace of grapes, the solid remains after pressing for wine. Examples include Grappa in Italy, Marc in France, and Orujo in Spain. These brandies capture the essence of the grape varieties used, offering a range of styles from clear and unaged to […]
Regional wine refers to wines that are typical of a specific geographic area, reflecting the characteristics and traditions of that region. These wines often adhere to regional regulations regarding grape varieties, winemaking practices, and labeling, aiming to showcase the unique terroir and cultural heritage of the area.