Some Technical Wine Terminology

Happy Monday, Wine Blog Readers!

To start the week out, I thought I'd write a quick blog that decodes some technical wine terminology. This way I don't have to re-define terms in further posts, and you all will be the smarter because of reading. Saves me time and typing, and increases your brain power all in one!

Here are some wine terms you are bound to come across in the world of wine:

Vintage: The year the grapes were harvested. So, a 2009 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc is made of grapes that were picked in 2009.

Négociant: A French term for a wine merchant buys grapes from smaller grape growers and winemakers and sells the result under its own name.

Oenophile: A lover of wine. In other words- me!

Varietal: Grape! Ex: Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, etc...

Cuvee: A specific blend of wines.

ABV: Alcohol By Volume (alcohol percentage)

Old World Wine: Wine made in Europe (France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Italy), as well as Portugal, Greece & Hungary. The wines are characterized as lower in alcohol, less fruity, and more earthy.

New World Wine: Wine made in the United States, South America, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Wines from this area are typically higher in alcohol and more fruit forward.

Punt: The circular indentation found in the base of a wine bottle.

Sommelier: A trained, knowledgeable, and professional wine steward.


Do you have any other terms that you need defined? Let me know!

'Til tomorrow!

Stacey