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Body

Body - Wine Wiki

In wine terminology, body refers to the weight and fullness of the wine in your mouth, often described as light-bodied, medium-bodied, or full-bodied. It’s a critical characteristic in assessing the overall drinking experience, as body directly relates to the wine’s texture and how it feels on your palate.

A light-bodied wine, like a Pinot Grigio or some Beaujolais, feels delicate and refreshing. These wines typically have lower alcohol content and are high in acidity, making them feel lighter. On the other hand, full-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah are rich and powerful, often higher in alcohol and tannins, giving them a heavier, more substantial mouthfeel.

Several factors contribute to a wine’s body. Alcohol is one of the primary influences, as wines with higher alcohol levels feel denser and more robust. Tannins, which are more present in red wines, can also add to a wine’s body by providing structure and complexity. Residual sugar (RS) can affect body too; wines with higher RS tend to feel fuller and rounder.

Body also plays an important role in food pairing. Lighter-bodied wines typically pair well with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, and poultry, while full-bodied wines can stand up to richer, heavier meals like steak or lamb.

When describing wine, body provides a useful shorthand for understanding how the wine will feel and what types of food it complements best.

Curious about more wine terms and insights? Visit our Wine Wiki section and explore the basic wine terms for expert definitions and tips!