Tinta Roriz is the Portuguese name for the Tempranillo grape, widely planted in Portugal’s Douro Valley and used in the production of Port and table wines. It contributes structure and berry fruit flavours to blends, showcasing the grape’s versatility in different terroirs.
Glossary
A vintner is a wine producer or winemaker, involved in the process of making wine from grape growing to bottling. The term can also refer to a wine merchant. Vintners play a crucial role in determining the style, quality, and character of the wine produced.
Zinfandel is a black-skinned grape variety known for producing robust red wines with high alcohol content and flavours of dark fruits, spices, and sometimes tobacco. Originating from Croatia (as Tribidrag or Crljenak Kaštelanski), it is particularly associated with California, where it plays a significant role in the wine industry.
Anthocyanins are natural pigments responsible for the red, purple, and blue hues in many fruits, including grapes, which ultimately contribute to the color of red wine. Beyond coloring, anthocyanins play a critical role in the taste and texture of wine, influencing its tannic structure and aging potential. These pigments, found […]
Barolo is a prestigious red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, made exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape. It’s known for its richness, complexity, and capacity to age gracefully. Barolo wines are often described as having flavours of cherries, tar, and roses, with high acidity and tannins. They require a […]
Cuvee refers to a blend or a batch of wine, often used to denote a specific selection or quality level within a winemaker’s portfolio. The term is most commonly associated with Champagne and sparkling wine production, where it signifies a blend of wines chosen for their excellence to create a […]
Destemming is the process of removing the grape stems before or during crushing in winemaking. Stems can contribute to harsh, green tannins in the wine, so their removal can result in a smoother, more approachable wine. However, some winemakers choose to include stems for certain styles, as they can add […]
Frizzante refers to lightly sparkling wine, with a gentler effervescence than fully sparkling wines like Champagne. This Italian term denotes wines with a mild fizz, achieved through natural fermentation or carbonation. Frizzante wines are often refreshing, with a subtle sparkle that makes them ideal for casual drinking or as an […]
A hydrometer is a tool used in winemaking to measure the density of grape juice or wine, which indicates the sugar content and potential alcohol level. By floating the hydrometer in the liquid, winemakers can assess the progress of fermentation and make decisions about harvesting and winemaking processes to achieve […]
Lagrein is a red wine grape variety native to the Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy. Known for producing deeply colored, full-bodied wines, Lagrein has flavours of dark fruits, chocolate, and spices, with notable tannins and acidity. It can be made into both single varietal wines and blends, offering a […]