Shaoxing wine (绍兴酒, shàoxīngjiǔ) is a traditional Chinese rice wine originating from Shaoxing, a city in Zhejiang province, eastern China. As a prominent variety of huangjiu (“yellow wine“), it is produced through the fermentation of glutinous rice, water, and wheat-based yeast. Renowned for its amber hue and complex flavor profile,it serves both as a beverage […]
Quartz wine refers to wines produced from vineyards with soils rich in quartz, a crystalline mineral composed of silicon and oxygen (SiO₂). While not a formal wine classification, the term is commonly used in wine marketing and educational contexts to highlight the influence of quartz-heavy terroirs on wine character. Quartz-rich soils are prized in several […]
What is Sake? It is a traditional Japanese rice wine that has been brewed for centuries. Despite often being called “rice wine,” sake is actually closer to beer in its brewing process, as it is made by fermenting rice rather than fruit. With a history deeply embedded in Japanese culture, it is not only enjoyed […]
Technology is changing the way winemakers, brewers, and distillers measure alcohol. Gone are the days of relying solely on hydrometers or refractometers. Now, a digital alcohol meter—also known as a digital analyzer—provide quick, accurate, and hassle-free alcohol measurements. But what exactly are these devices? How do they work, and why should winemakers consider using them? […]
What is Geosmin? Geosmin is a naturally occurring organic compound. It responsible for the distinct earthy, musty aroma often associated with wet soil after rainfall. This compound is a bicyclic alcohol with the chemical formula C12H22O and belongs to the class of terpenoids. It is primarily produced by microorganisms such as Streptomyces (a genus of […]
How an Alcohol Refractometer Works and Why It’s Useful in Winemaking Measuring alcohol content in wine is an essential step for winemakers, and one handy tool for the job is an alcohol refractometer. This simple yet effective device helps determine alcohol levels by analyzing how light bends as it passes through a liquid. Unlike hydrometers, […]
Infusion is a winemaking technique that enhances the flavor and aroma of wine by steeping various ingredients in the liquid. This process allows winemakers to introduce additional layers of complexity and uniqueness to their wines. Infusion can involve herbs, spices, fruits, or other botanicals, each contributing distinct characteristics to the final product. In the realm […]
Irrigation is a critical agricultural practice in viticulture, essential for the growth and health of grapevines. It involves supplying water to vineyards to ensure that vines receive the necessary hydration, especially in regions with limited natural rainfall. Proper irrigation management directly influences grape quality, vine health, and ultimately, the characteristics of the wine produced. In […]
What means Imperial in the context of wine? Imperial is a term we use in the wine world to denote exceptional quality and prestige. It varies depending on the region and classification system, but the common thread is excellence and superior characteristics. In Germany, Imperial often relates to Riesling wines. Imperial Riesling signifies an extraordinary […]
Indigenous yeasts play a crucial role in winemaking. These yeasts naturally reside on grape skins and within the winery environment. Unlike commercial yeast strains, indigenous yeasts are unique to each vineyard. They contribute distinct flavors and aromas to the wine, reflecting the specific terroir of the region. During fermentation, they initiate the conversion of sugars […]
IGT, or Indicazione Geografica Tipica, is an important classification in the Italian wine system. Introduced in 1992, IGT sits below the DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) levels. This classification highlights wines that come from specific geographic regions but with fewer restrictions than higher-tier classifications. IGT offers winemakers […]
Ice wine stands out as a sweet, richly flavored dessert wine. Winemakers produce it under very cold conditions. They let the grapes freeze on the vine. Then they pick them while they remain rock-hard. That moment usually arrives in midwinter, often before dawn. Growers must act quickly. Frozen grapes thaw when temperatures rise. Pressing them […]
Listen to this article: A mimosa is a simple, refreshing cocktail. It blends sparkling wine and citrus juice—most often orange juice—in equal parts. This drink is renowned for its bright, zesty flavor and celebratory feel. You’ll frequently see it served at brunches, weddings, and special occasions, where its bubbly nature adds a festive touch. Mimosas […]
Tokaji wine comes from the Tokaj wine region in Hungary and parts of Slovakia. It holds the title of the world’s first regulated wine region, established in 1737. The region is famous for its sweet wines made from grapes affected by Botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot. These wines, particularly Tokaji Aszú, stand out […]
Cryoextraction is a winemaking technique that involves freezing grapes. The process mimics nature’s method of creating ice wine but uses technology instead of relying on the weather. Winemakers freeze the harvested grapes to concentrate their sugars and flavors. Once frozen, the grapes go into a press. The frozen water inside the grapes separates from the […]
Crianza Wine Meaning If you’ve ever come across the term Crianza on a Spanish wine label and wondered about its meaning in English, you’re not alone. In Spanish, “Crianza” translates loosely to “nurture” or “rearing,” which perfectly captures the idea behind how these wines are meticulously aged. Below, we’ll break down Crianza meaning, its unique […]
Blanc de Noirs refers to a sparkling wine made from red or black grapes. The name translates to “white from blacks” in French. Winemakers use grape varieties like Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier to create it. Despite being made from dark-skinned grapes, the wine appears light in color. This happens because winemakers avoid letting the […]
A barrique is a small oak barrel used for aging wine. It holds 225 liters, or about 60 gallons. Originating in Bordeaux, it remains a standard vessel in winemaking today. Winemakers use barriques to add flavor, aroma, and complexity to their wines. Oak influences wine through its tannins and aromatic compounds. Barriques often contribute notes […]
Anthocyanins are natural pigments in grape skins. They give red and purple wines their vibrant color. These pigments belong to the flavonoid group, which also contributes to wine’s tannins. Their concentration depends on the grape variety and growing conditions. It is pronounced [an-tho-SY-uh-nins]. For an audio-visual guide on how to say the word correctly, check […]
Ampelography is the science of identifying and classifying grapevines. Experts use it to study the physical traits of grapevine leaves, shoots, and grapes. This practice dates back centuries and plays a key role in viticulture. Each grape variety has unique characteristics. These include the shape of the leaf, the size of the grape cluster, and […]
Definitions and explanations of some words used in the wine industry.