For those new to the world of wine, the terminology can feel like an entirely different language. From "tannins" to "terroir", understanding these terms can greatly enhance your wine-drinking experience and help you feel confident at tastings, wine shops, and dinner parties. This beginner’s glossary breaks down some of the most common wine terms and what they mean, helping you better appreciate the complex and captivating world of wine.
Aroma vs Bouquet
Both terms refer to the smells you detect in wine, but there’s a subtle difference.
- Aroma: Refers to the fruity, floral, or herbal scents that come from the grapes themselves.
- Bouquet: Describes the more complex aromas that develop as the wine ages, often influenced by fermentation or oak ageing.
Body
The “body” of a wine describes its weight or texture in your mouth. Wines are generally categorised as light-bodied, medium-bodied, or full-bodied. For instance:
- A light-bodied wine feels delicate and refreshing, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
- A full-bodied wine is rich and heavier, such as a bold Shiraz.
Dry vs Sweet
This refers to the wine's sugar content. A dry wine has little to no residual sugar, whereas a sweet wine retains more sugar after fermentation. Most table wines are dry, but many dessert wines fall into the sweet category.
Tannins
Tannins are natural compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems. They contribute to the wine’s structure and give it that slightly astringent or drying sensation on your palate. Red wines tend to have higher tannin levels than whites.
Terroir
A French term that encompasses the environmental factors influencing a vineyard, including soil, climate, and topography. Terroir is often what makes wines from a specific region unique.
Finish
The finish is the lingering taste that remains after you’ve swallowed the wine. Wines with a long finish are often considered more complex and of higher quality.
Acidity
Acidity gives wine its crispness and vibrancy. Wines with higher acidity often taste refreshing and zesty, while those with lower acidity may feel softer and rounder.
Vintage
The vintage indicates the year the grapes were harvested – a wine labelled 2020, for example, was made from grapes harvested in that year. Vintage plays a key role in the flavour profile, as growing conditions can vary greatly from year to year.
Decanting
Decanting is the process of pouring wine into another vessel (a decanter) to aerate it and allow the flavours to open up. It’s particularly beneficial for older red wines or young, tannic wines.
Reserve
While “reserve” often implies higher quality, its meaning varies between regions. In some places, it indicates wines aged longer or made from premium grapes, but elsewhere, it may just be a marketing term.
Pairing Wine with Confidence
Understanding these terms can also help you pair wines with food more effectively – for instance, the tannins in a bold Cabernet Sauvignon complement a juicy steak, while the crisp acidity of a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishes. If you’re keen to explore wines that embrace the richness of Australian terroir and craftsmanship, explore Canterbury Wines, where you’ll find an exceptional selection that caters to every palate and occasion.
Final Thoughts
Learning wine terminology may seem daunting at first, but it opens up a new level of enjoyment and appreciation. Whether you’re sipping a buttery Chardonnay or a spicy Shiraz, understanding these terms will help you identify what you love and why. So pour yourself a glass and enjoy your wine journey!
