Varietal refers to a wine made primarily from a single named grape variety, emphasizing the character of that grape in the wine. Varietal wines showcase the flavours, aromas, and attributes specific to the grape type, and labeling laws regarding the percentage of the grape variety required in the wine vary […]
Wine Term
Vintage refers to the year the grapes were harvested to make a wine, indicating the wine’s age and often suggesting the conditions and climate of that growing season. Vintage can significantly affect a wine’s quality and character, with some years being better than others due to weather conditions.
A wine fault is a characteristic that makes a wine unpleasant or unpalatable, often resulting from poor winemaking practices, bad storage conditions, or cork contamination. Common faults include oxidation, cork taint (TCA), volatile acidity, and Brettanomyces (barnyard smell).
A wine label provides essential information about the wine, including the producer, region of origin, varietal or blend, vintage (if applicable), alcohol content, and sometimes tasting notes or winemaking details. Labels can also indicate quality levels and certifications, aiding consumers in making informed choices.
Wine storage involves keeping wine in optimal conditions to preserve its quality and allow it to age gracefully. Proper storage conditions include controlled temperature, humidity, darkness, and minimal vibration, with wine bottles typically stored on their side to keep the cork moist.