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The secret to speaking like a true wine connoisseur – master these basic wine terms!

Enjoying wine is not just about appreciating the flavors, but also about the subtlety of conversation and sharing emotions. A true wine connoisseur knows how to "speak the language of wine"—using precise terminology to describe aromas, flavors, and structure. Join Golden Wine in discovering the secrets to speaking like a true wine connoisseur , starting with mastering the most basic wine terminology !

1. WINE TERMS BEGIN WITH THE LETTER “A”

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Acidity Freshness The wine has a refreshing, invigorating sensation in the mouth. The acidity is balanced with the sweetness and bitterness, creating a harmonious flavor.
Age Well-ventilated, exposed to air. The process of exposing wine to air enhances its flavor. This is usually done by pouring the wine into a decanter.
Aftertaste Pylorus The taste lingers in the mouth after drinking the wine. High-quality wines usually have a long-lasting, pleasant aftertaste.
Aged INCUBATE Wines that have been aged under the right conditions for an extended period of time often acquire more complex and deeper flavors.
Aging Incubation process The process of storing wine in oak barrels, stainless steel tanks, or in bottles allows the wine to develop its distinctive flavors.
Aging Barrel composting bin Wooden barrels (usually oak) are used to age wine, allowing the wine to absorb the natural flavors from the wood.
Alcohol by Volume (ABV) Alcohol content by volume The percentage of alcohol in wine typically ranges from 8–15%, depending on the type of wine.
Vodka Alcohol Ethanol – the main component that gives alcohol its pungent taste.
Alsace Alsace This wine-growing region in eastern France is famous for its white wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Amarone Amarone Italian red wine, with its high alcohol content, is made from semi-dried grapes in the Veneto region and has a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
Anosmia Loss of smell The inability to smell affects the ability to enjoy wine.
AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) Controlled designation of origin The French system protects the origin and quality of wines from each region.
Aperitif Aperitif This type of wine is drunk before meals to stimulate the taste buds, and is usually light or slightly sweet.
Appointment Grape growing region Geographic regions determine where grapes for winemaking are produced; each region has its own unique climate and flavor profile.
Ehome Scent The natural aroma of wine, often used to describe young wines with fresh, fruity notes.
Astringency Chat The dry sensation on the tongue when drinking wine is caused by tannins in the grapes or oak aging.
AVA (American Viticultural Area) American grape-growing region The wine-growing region is recognized in the United States, similar to the AOC system in France.

2. WINE TERMS BEGINNING WITH THE LETTER “B”

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Price Balance The balance between elements such as acidity, sweetness, tannins, alcohol, and overall flavor in wine.
Barrel composting bin Wooden containers (usually made of oak) are used for aging wine, allowing the wine to absorb the aromas and distinctive flavors from the wood.
Barrel Aging The aging process in wooden barrels. The wine is aged in oak barrels to develop more complex flavors.
Barbique small oak barrel This type of oak barrel has a capacity of approximately 225 liters and is common in the Bordeaux region (France).
Beaujolais Beaujolais This renowned wine-producing region in France, using the Gamay grape variety, is distinguished by its fresh, light flavors.
Beaujolais Nouveau Beaujolais young wine Young red wines are released annually in November, boasting fresh, fruity flavors and an easy-drinking quality.
Blanc de Blancs White from white grapes Sparkling wine, or Champagne, is made entirely from white grapes (usually Chardonnay).
Blanc de Noirs White from red grapes Sparkling wine is made from red grapes (such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier) but has a white or pale pink color.
Blend Blended alcohol Wine is made from many different grape varieties to create a harmonious and complex flavor.
Body Wine body The sensation of "fullness" in the mouth when drinking alcohol. This is usually categorized as light, medium, and full-bodied.
Bodega Wine cellar (Spain) The Spanish word for a wine production facility or wine cellar.
Bordeaux Bordeaux One of the world's most famous wine-producing regions, located in southwestern France, is renowned for its blended red wines.
Botrytis Cinerea Noble rot This "precious" fungus helps grapes lose water, increasing their natural sweetness – creating famous sweet wines like Sauternes.
Bouquet Complex fragrance Aromas develop during the aging process and are often used to describe the scent of mature wine.
Brut Dry (for Champagne) Low sweetness level, often used to describe Champagne or sparkling wine with very little residual sugar.
Bubbles Balloon The CO₂ bubbles are natural or artificial bubbles found in sparkling wine.
Burgundy (Bourgogne) Burgundy (France) This renowned wine-growing region of France produces some of the world's leading Pinot Noir red wines and Chardonnay white wines.
Buttery Rich, creamy The term describes the smooth, creamy texture found in white wines, often seen in oak-aged Chardonnay.

3. Wine terms that begin with the letter C

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Cabernet Franc Cabernet Franc This red grape variety has a light, herbaceous flavor and is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in Bordeaux wines.
Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon One of the world's most famous red grape varieties, it has a strong tannin structure and flavors of blackcurrant, cherry, and vanilla.
Calcareous Limestone soil Soils rich in limestone often contribute to grapes having a higher acidity and more refined flavors.
Campagne Promotional campaign In the context of wine, it can be understood as a promotional program or introduction of a new wine line (less commonly used in the winemaking industry).
Canopy Grapevine foliage The leaves and branches of the grapevine play an important role in absorbing sunlight and regulating the ripening of the grapes.
Carbonic Maceration Carbon dioxide fermentation method The fermentation process in a CO₂ environment helps to create a light, low-tannin wine with fresh fruity aromas – characteristic of Beaujolais Nouveau.
Caraf Wine decanter A glass decanter is used to pour wine from the bottle, allowing the wine to "breathe" and release its aroma.
Cash Wine container Wooden (or stainless steel) containers used for aging or transporting wine.
Cava Cava (Spain) Spanish sparkling wine, produced using a traditional method similar to Champagne.
Cellar Wine cellar A place to store and preserve wine at the appropriate temperature and humidity.
Champagne Champagne This premium sparkling wine comes from the Champagne region (France) and is produced using a secondary fermentation method in the bottle.
Cultivation Add sugar The process of adding sugar to grape juice to increase the alcohol content during fermentation.
Chardonnay Chardonnay A popular white grape variety, used for still and sparkling wines. It has aromas of apple, pear, vanilla, and a creamy taste when aged in oak.
Chateau Castle / Producer The term is used in French wine (especially Bordeaux) to refer to a wine-producing estate.
Chenin Blanc Chenin Blanc This versatile white grape variety, capable of producing dry, sweet, or sparkling wine, is popular in the Loire region of France.
Claret Claret (Bordeaux red wine) The traditional designation in England used for red wines from the Bordeaux region.
Clone Cloned species Grapevines are propagated from a mother plant that possesses desirable characteristics (e.g., yield, flavor).
Complex Complex Used to describe a wine that has many different layers of flavor and aroma when tasted.
Cork Cork Wine corks, usually made from oak bark.
Corked Wine The wine has been contaminated with the smell of cork. The wine has a musty, damp smell due to contamination with TCA compounds from a damaged cork.
Corkscrew Wine opener A specialized tool for removing corks from wine bottles.
Cru Premium vineyard French terms used to indicate the quality level of a wine-growing region or vineyard (such as "Grand Cru", "Premier Cru").
Cuvee Batch of ingredients The term refers to a blend of wines from different grape varieties, vintages, or barrels; it is commonly found on Champagne labels.

See also: What is Tannin? 6 "Golden" Benefits of Tannin in Red Wine

4. Wine terms that begin with the letter D

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Débouurbage Sedimentation The process of allowing sediment to settle in the grape juice before fermentation helps to make the wine clearer and reduces the need for filtration later.
Decanting Pour the wine The process of pouring wine from the bottle into a decanter helps to separate sediment and allows the wine to "breathe," revealing its flavors.
Degorgement Drain The process of removing frozen yeast sediment from the neck of the bottle during Champagne production.
Tardive Dégorgement Late drain Champagne is aged on yeast sediment for a long time (10 years or more) before the sediment is removed, creating a complex flavor profile.
Demi-sec Sweetish The term describes a wine with a slightly sweet taste, often used for Champagne.
Dessert Wine Dessert wine Sweet wines with high alcohol content are often served with desserts (such as Sauternes, Port, and Tokaji).
Distilled Spirits Brandy Alcoholic beverages are distilled from wine, fruit juice, or fermented grains.
OL Sugar dosage Sweet liqueur (liqueur d'expédition) is added to Champagne to adjust its dryness/sweetness.
Douro Douro A renowned wine region in Portugal, famous for its Port wine and strong red wines.
Dry Not sweet Wines with little or no residual sugar often leave a slightly dry sensation on the tongue.

5. Wine terms that begin with the letter E

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Snowy Land The flavor profile evokes notes of earth, mushrooms, and damp forests—commonly found in aged red wines.
Eau de Vie Fruit spirits The French term refers to a type of spirit distilled from grapes or fruit (such as Cognac, Armagnac).
In Primeur Young wine The Bordeaux wine system is a "buy now - get later" system, meaning the wine is sold before it is bottled.
En Tirage Settling stage This stage in the Champagne process involves aging the wine with the yeast sediment from the second fermentation.
Enology (Oenology) Wine agronomy The science of winemaking, including fermentation, blending, and preservation.
Enophilia Wine connoisseur A person who loves, collects, and is knowledgeable about wine.
Entry-Level Wine Basic Wine This is the producer's most affordable and basic quality wine, suitable for beginners.
Eraflage Separate the stem The process of removing the stems from the grape bunch before pressing helps reduce bitterness and astringency.
Extended Maceration Prolonged soaking and fermentation Extending the contact time of the skins and seeds with the grape juice after fermentation enhances color, aroma, and tannins.
Extraction Extract The process of extracting color, tannins, and flavor from grape skins and seeds during winemaking.
Ex-Cellars Shipping costs The trade terms only cover shipping costs and other expenses incurred in the sale of en primeur wine.

6. Terms beginning with the letter F

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Fermentation Ferment The fermentation process converts the sugar in grape juice into alcohol and CO₂ gas. This stage is crucial in determining the flavor, structure, and alcohol content of the wine.
Finding Making wine The process of removing sediment and impurities from wine involves adding clarifying agents (such as egg whites, bentonite, etc.). This makes the wine clearer, smoother, and more visually appealing.
Finish Pylorus The sensation and flavor that linger in the mouth after swallowing the wine. Wines with a "long finish" are premium wines with a lasting aftertaste.
Flabby Bland / Lacking Structure A wine described as having low acidity, a bland taste, and lacking freshness or balance is often considered a negative point in wine reviews.
Floral Fragrance of flowers This describes a wine with floral aromas (rose, orange blossom, violet, etc.). This is characteristic of many white or light wines.
Fortified wine Wine mixed with alcohol / fortified wine Wines that have added spirits (usually brandy) during production – for example, Port, Sherry, Madeira. They typically have a high alcohol content and a characteristic sweetness.
Free-run juice Grape juice that flows naturally The first juice that flows out before pressing the grapes is of the highest quality and is used for premium wines.
Full-bodied Rich/structured This description describes a wine with a full-bodied, powerful flavor, a heavy and round feel in the mouth – a common characteristic of high-quality red wines.

7. Terms beginning with the letter G

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Gagian Gamay grape variety This red grape variety is primarily grown in the Beaujolais region of France. It produces light, refreshing red wines with aromas of red fruits such as strawberries and cherries.
Garnet Ruby red / ruby ​​red The wine has a slightly orange tint, a characteristic often seen in aged red wines.
Gewürztraminer Gewürztraminer grape variety This famous white grape variety, native to Germany and the Alsace region (France), produces wines with aromas of rose, lychee, and spices.
Gigondas Gigondas The wine region in the Rhône Valley (France) is famous for its powerful red wines made from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes.
Glycerol (Glycerin) Glycerol (Thickening agent) This natural compound creates a rich, smooth, and soft sensation in the mouth – often found in high-alcohol wines.
Gran Reserve Aged wines (Gran Reserva) The Spanish term refers to wines that are aged in oak barrels and bottled for many years before being sold, usually the highest quality.
Grappa Grappa spirits This Italian spirit is distilled from the grape pomace left over after winemaking. It has a distinctive strong aroma and flavor.
Grenache (Garnacha) Grenache grape variety One of the world's most popular red grape varieties, it produces wines with ripe fruit flavors, a hint of spice, and a medium to full-bodied character.
Grüner Veltliner Grüner Veltliner grape variety Made from the characteristic white grape of Austria, the wine has a fresh taste, a slight spiciness, and aromas of green apple and white pepper.
Gusto Flavor / Taste sensation The term refers to the overall sensation when tasting wine – including aroma, flavor, and texture on the tongue.

8. Terms beginning with the letter H

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Harvest Grape harvest The grape harvesting stage is crucial in determining the quality of the wine. Early-harvested grapes produce wines with high acidity; late-harvested grapes result in sweeter wines with richer flavors.
Hectare Hectare The unit of area measurement (10,000 m²) is commonly used to describe the size of a vineyard.
Herbaceous Herbs / plants The term describes the flavor or aroma of the wine as reminiscent of fresh grass, green leaves, or herbs – often found in wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon or Sauvignon Blanc grapes.
House wine Restaurant wine / general wine This is a basic type of wine commonly served in restaurants and bars; it's affordable and easy to drink.
Hybrid grape Hybrid grape variety This grape variety is a cross between European grape (Vitis vinifera) and American grape (Vitis labrusca) to resist pests, diseases, and harsh climates.
Horizontal tasting Taste the wine horizontally. Wine tasting involves sampling several wines of the same vintage but from different producers or regions – allowing for comparison of style and quality.
Hot Strong/spicy due to alcohol A burning sensation in the throat when drinking high-alcohol or unbalanced beverages.
Hungarian oak Hungarian oak The type of oak used for aging barrels is renowned for its ability to impart subtle vanilla notes, smoky undertones, and a refined structure to the wine.
Hollow The wine has a bland taste. Used to describe a wine that lacks balance and depth – often with a strong initial aroma but weak middle and finish.
Hue Wine color shades The color tone of wine indicates its age and style (for example, purplish red – young wine, brick red – aged wine).

9. Terms beginning with the letter I

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Ice Wine (Eiswein) Ice wine Sweet wine is made from grapes harvested after they have naturally frozen on the vine. The cold-pressing process yields concentrated grape juice with a rich sweetness and prominent fruity aromas.
IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée) Geographical indications are protected. The French wine classification system, lower than AOC but higher than Vin de France, guarantees that the wine comes from a specific geographical area.
Imperial Imperial capacity (6 liters) The large bottle size is equivalent to 8 standard bottles (750ml), often used for parties or display.
Importer Importer A business or individual responsible for importing and distributing wine in a country.
Intensity Flavor intensity The intensity of the aroma and flavor in a wine. An "intense" wine is one with a prominent, strong, and long-lasting flavor.
International varieties International grape varieties Globally popular grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc can be grown in many countries.
Stainless steel Stainless steel Materials used for fermentation tanks or vats; preserves the fresh fruit flavor and clarity of the wine.
Integrated pest management (IPM) Integrated pest management Environmentally friendly grape cultivation methods combine various measures to control pests and diseases without the overuse of chemicals.
Intensity of color Color intensity The intensity of the wine's color, whether dark or light, helps to assess its age and the grape variety.
Irrigation Irrigation Providing water for vineyards in arid regions. Some areas prohibit irrigation to preserve the natural characteristics of the soil and climate.
Ad wine Italian wine Wine is produced in Italy – one of the world's largest wine-producing countries, famous for regions such as Tuscany, Piedmont, and Veneto.
Isinglass Fish-derived clarifying agent This natural substance, extracted from fish bladders, is used in the winemaking (finishing) process to remove sediment and impurities.

10. Terms beginning with the letter J

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Jammy Jam flavor This description describes a red wine with a rich, sweet flavor reminiscent of ripe fruit jam (commonly found in warm climates).
Jeroboam Jeroboam bottle (3–5 liters) This large bottle size is equivalent to 4–6 standard 750ml bottles, used for Champagne or Bordeaux red wine.
Juice Grape juice Grape juice, obtained after pressing, is the initial ingredient for fermentation into wine.
Jug wine Bottled liquor (cheap liquor) This type of inexpensive wine is bottled in large decanters or large-capacity bottles, and is popular in the United States.
Joven Young wines (Spain) The Spanish term refers to wine that has not been aged, or has been aged minimally, in oak barrels, and is typically fresh and easy to drink.
Juvenile wine Young wine Young wines, which have not yet reached maturity in flavor and structure, often have a strong tannic taste and fresh fruity aromas.
Jumilla Jumilla This renowned wine region in southeastern Spain primarily grows the Monastrell grape variety, producing full-bodied and aromatic wines.
Joint Venture Wine Co-produced wine Wine is produced through a collaboration between two or more producers or brands, often combining different regional styles.
Juvenile vines Young grapevine Vines under three years old are not yet mature enough to produce high-quality grapes for winemaking.
Nam aroma Jasmine fragrance A subtle aromatic characteristic, often found in white wines such as Riesling or Muscat.

11. Wine terms that begin with the letter K

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Kabinett Kabinett whiskey (Germany) The first level in the German wine classification system (Prädikatswein) is typically a light, refreshing wine, with a mild sweetness or dryness.
Keg wine Wine in barrels Wine is stored and served in stainless steel tanks, commonly found in restaurants or bars, to ensure freshness.
Kerner Kerner grape variety This white grape variety, a cross between Trollinger and Riesling, is popular in Germany and Italy, producing aromatic, slightly spicy, and refreshing wines.
Kosher wine Kosher (Jewish) liquor The wine is produced and supervised according to strict Jewish regulations; only practicing Jews are permitted to handle it.
Kabinett Trocken Kabinett dry whiskey The dry (less sweet or unsweetened) version of Kabinett whiskey in the German grading system.
Kimmeridgian soil Kimmeridgian land The calcareous clay soil containing fossilized shells, famous in the Chablis region (France), contributes to the wine's distinctive mineral flavor.
Kir Cocktail Kir A traditional French mixed drink, consisting of white wine (usually Aligoté) mixed with crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur).
Kir Royale Cocktail Kir Royale Kir's more luxurious version uses Champagne instead of white wine.
Kitschy wine label Wine labels with an "ornamental" style. Wine labels often feature colorful, eye-catching designs or playful elements to attract buyers; this is common with mainstream wines.
Knights Valley Knights Valley This renowned grape-growing region is located in Sonoma County (California, USA), specializing in the production of high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.

12. Terms beginning with the letter L

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Labrusca (Vitis labrusca) Labrador grapes A native North American grape variety, often used to make inexpensive wine or juice; it has a distinctive flavor known as "foxy".
Lactic acid Lactic acid Acids are formed during malolactic fermentation, which gives the wine a smoother and more rounded flavor.
Lagrein Lagrein grape variety The red grape variety grown in South Tyrol (Italy) produces wines with a deep color, high tannin content, and aromas of ripe fruit.
Late harvest Late harvest Wines made from late-harvested grapes have a higher sugar content and are typically sweeter and more flavorful.
Lay down Lying down while fermenting wine The term refers to storing wine horizontally so that the cork remains moist, preventing leaks and oxidation.
Lees Yeast residue The dead yeast and solid residue that settles after fermentation are sometimes retained to add buttery or bread-like flavor.
Lees aging (Sur lie) Ferment on yeast residue The wine is aged with yeast sediment to enhance its richness, buttery flavor, and smoothness.
Left bank Left bank (Bordeaux) The area on the left bank of the Gironde River in Bordeaux is famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon.
Legs (Tears) The wine clings to the glass. The phenomenon of wine forming streaks down the glass after shaking indicates a high alcohol or sugar content.
Liebfraumilch German sweet white wine A popular German white wine, with a slightly sweet taste, is usually made from Riesling or Müller-Thurgau.
Light-bodied Light-bodied wine The wine has a low alcohol content, low tannins, and a delicate flavor.
Liquoreux Sweet wine The term comes from French and refers to sweet, full-bodied white wines like Sauternes.
Liqueur d'expédition Final blended wine A mixture of wine and sugar is added to Champagne after the dégorgement process to adjust the sweetness.
Liquor de tirage Yeast-boosting wine A mixture of alcohol, sugar, and yeast is added to Champagne to begin the second fermentation process in the bottle.
Loire Valley Loire Valley Famous wine-producing region in the South

13. Terms beginning with the letter M

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Commerce Soaking and fermenting The process involves soaking the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes in grape juice to extract color, tannins, and flavor.
Madeira Madeira wine Fortified wine from Madeira Island (Portugal) has a light sweetness and caramel notes.
Magnum Magnum bottle The bottle has a capacity of 1.5 liters (double the size of a standard 750ml bottle). Wines aged in Magnum bottles typically develop flavors more slowly and in a more balanced way.
Malbec Malbec grape variety This red grape variety is popular in Argentina and France, producing full-bodied wines with high tannin content and aromas of ripe plums and chocolate.
Malic acid Malic acid Grapes contain natural acids that give them a tart, green, apple-like taste; these are converted into lactic acid during malolactic fermentation.
Malolactic fermentation (MLF) Malolactic fermentation The microbial process converts malic acid into lactic acid, resulting in a smoother, less acidic wine.
Marangoni effect Marangoni effect The phenomenon of "legs" forming when swirling a glass is related to the different evaporation rates of alcohol and water.
Marsala Marsala Wine Italian fortified wine, produced in Sicily, is often used in cooking or as a dessert wine.
Master sommelier Master wine expert This is the highest honor awarded to professional wine servers and consultants, bestowed by the Court of Master Sommeliers.
Maturo Mature (Italy) An Italian term for wine that has reached the right level of maturity and is ready to be enjoyed.
Mead Honey wine A fermented drink made from honey and water, sometimes with added fruit or spices.
Medium-bodied Medium-bodied wine The wine has a balanced structure and a moderate alcohol content, neither too light nor too strong.
Heritage Meritage Wine American blended wines in the Bordeaux style (typically using Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc).
Merlot Merlot grape variety One of the world's most popular red grape varieties, it boasts a soft, smooth, and easy-drinking flavor.
Mesoclimate Microclimate of the growing region The specific climate within a small area of ​​the vineyard directly affects the quality of the grapes.
Micro-oxygenation Micro-oxidation The technique involves adding small amounts of oxygen to the wine during aging to soften tannins and develop flavors.
Minerality Mineral content The mineral taste (wet stone, chalk, sea salt) in the wine, commonly found in white wines.
Mise en bouteille Bottled The French term refers to the bottling stage of the wine, often seen on the label as "Mise en bouteille au château" (Bottled at the estate).
Moelleux Light sweet wine (France) White wine has a moderate sweetness, not harsh.
Monopole Exclusive ownership The vineyard or wine label is owned and produced exclusively by a single producer.
Mousseux Sparkling wine The French word refers to sparkling wines (bubbles), similar to Champagne but produced in a different region.
Mouth The sensation in the mouth Experience the texture, viscosity, tannins, or fattiness of the wine when you drink it.
Must Fermented grape juice A mixture of grape juice, skins, seeds, and stems before or during the fermentation process.
Mutation (Mutage) Increase alcohol content The process of adding spirits (usually brandy) to fermenting grape juice to stop the fermentation process creates sweet wine (like Port).

14. Terms beginning with the letter N

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Napa Valley Napa Valley This renowned wine-growing region of California (USA) is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines.
Nebbiolo Nebbiolo grape variety This red grape variety, primarily grown in Piedmont (Italy), produces renowned wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, known for their powerful flavor and high tannin content.
Negotiant Wine merchant A person or company that purchases grapes or wine from other producers to blend, age, and sell under its own label.
New World Wine New World Wines Wines from countries outside Europe, such as the USA, Australia, Chile, and South Africa, often have a rich, easy-to-drink flavor and a modern style.
Noble Grapes Noble grape variety Six international grape varieties are considered the cornerstone of world wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling.
Nose Wine aroma The term refers to the aroma emanating from the wine when smelled – it could be fruity, woody, herbal, or spicy.
Nouveau New wine Young wines, with short fermentation periods, are bottled and sold soon after harvest, the most famous example being Beaujolais Nouveau (France).
NV (Non-Vintage) Not based on the crop year Wine (usually Champagne or sparkling wine) is blended from different vintages to maintain a consistent flavor.
Natural Wine Natural wine The wine is made from organically grown grapes, naturally fermented, with little to no additives or sulfur.
Neutral Oak Neutral oak The oak barrels have been used many times, so they no longer strongly affect the wine's flavor but still allow the wine to "breathe".
Non-Filtrée No filter Unfiltered wine retains its natural structure and flavor; it often has a light sediment.
Nutrient Deficiency Nutrient deficiency A deficiency of essential minerals such as nitrogen, magnesium, or iron in grapevines affects the quality of the grapes.

15. Terms beginning with the letter O

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Oak Oak wood The type of wood used for aging wine helps to impart flavors such as vanilla, caramel, smoke, or toasted bread to the wine.
Oaky It has oak wood notes. The term refers to wines with distinctive aromas and flavors derived from oak barrels, such as vanilla, coconut, and smoke.
Old World Wine Old World Wines Wines from traditional European countries such as France, Italy, Spain, and Germany emphasize terroir and sophistication.
Off-dry Sweetish The wine has a slight residual sugar content, often found in some types of Riesling or Moscato.
Oxidation Oxidation The process of wine being exposed to air changes its flavor and color; excessive exposure can also complicate or spoil the wine.
Organic Wine Organic wine The wine is produced from grapes grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or artificial additives.
Overrip Overcooked Grapes are harvested when they are overripe, resulting in wine with a rich, sweet, and intense flavor.
Open "Open" wine The wine is at its best in terms of flavor perception, usually after it has had time to breathe.

16. Terms beginning with the letter P

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Planet Taste The sensations and flavors perceived in the mouth when drinking alcohol.
Pale Pale color This description refers to a wine with a light, bright color, commonly found in rosé or white wines.
Parker Points Parker Scale The wine rating system (from 50–100 points), initiated by critic Robert Parker, has had a significant influence on the wine industry.
Perlage Air bubbles The Italian term refers to the fine bubbles found in sparkling wines like Champagne.
Petit Verdot Petit Verdot grape variety Bordeaux red grapes, which produce full-bodied, colorful wines with high tannin content, are often used in blends.
Pinot Noir Pinot Noir grape variety One of the most famous grape varieties, producing an elegant red wine with aromas of cherry, earth, and spice.
Port Wine Portuguese sweet wine Fortified wine is sweet, high in alcohol, and often served as a dessert wine.
Pressing Grape pressing The process of pressing grapes to separate the juice from the skins and seeds.
Producer Manufacturer The establishment or brand is responsible for growing, fermenting, and bottling the wine.

17. Wine terms begin with the letter R.

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Racking Transfer wine The process involves transferring the wine from one barrel to another to remove sediment.
Reserva / Riserva Aged wine The Spanish/Italian term refers to wine that has been aged longer than the standard timeframe before bottling.
Residual Sugar (RS) Excess sugar The amount of sugar remaining after the fermentation process is complete.
Riesling Riesling grape variety This famous white grape variety from Germany produces wines ranging from dry to sweet, with citrus and honey aromas.
Rosé Rose wine The wine is made from red grapes but with short contact of the skins, resulting in a pale pink color.
Robust Rich and flavorful Used to describe a strong, flavorful wine with high tannin content.
Round Well-rounded flavor The sensation is smooth and balanced in the mouth, without any harshness.
Reserve Wine Special wine Premium wines are typically made from the finest grapes and aged in the best barrels.

18. Terms beginning with the letter S

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Sommelier Wine expert Professional waiters and wine consultants at the restaurant.
Sediment Furry The small particles settle to the bottom of the bottle during the natural fermentation process.
Sparkling Wine Sparkling wine Naturally sparkling wines such as Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava.
Sweet Sweet This refers to wine with excess sugar, often used in dessert wines.
Structure Structure The balance between acidity, tannins, alcohol, and flavor in wine.
Syrah / Shiraz Syrah grape variety This famous red grape variety produces a full-bodied, spicy wine with notes of black pepper and ripe plums.
Single Vineyard A vineyard Wine made from grapes grown in a single vineyard.

19. Terms beginning with the letter T

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Tannin Astringent The natural compounds in grape skins, seeds, and oak wood create a tart sensation in the mouth.
Terroir Characteristics of the growing region The influence of climate, soil, and topography on the flavor of wine.
Noi Control Temperature control Techniques in winemaking to ensure consistent quality.
Toasty Baked goods aroma The wine has a distinctive aroma from being aged in toasted oak barrels.
Tasting Notes Tasting notes Describe the sensory experience (smell, taste, color) when tasting the wine.
Tracken Dry (German) Only German wines have a dry style, with little or no residual sugar.
Table Wine Wine on the table A popular type of wine used in everyday meals, with a medium alcohol content.

20. Terms beginning with the letter U

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Ullage The empty space in the bottle The space between the wine and the cork allows the wine to "breathe".
Unfiltered No filter The wine is unfiltered, retaining its natural flavor and structure.
Unoaked Not aged oak The wine is not aged in oak barrels, preserving its fresh, light flavor.
Urban Winery Urban winery The wine production facility is located in the city instead of the vineyard region.

21. Wine terms that begin with the letter V

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Varietal Single-varietal wine The wine is made primarily from a single grape variety (≥75%).
Vineyard Vineyard The area where grapes are grown for wine production.
Vintage Crop year The year the grapes are harvested for winemaking.
Vincert The winemaking process The entire process, from pressing grapes and fermenting to bottling.
Vin Santo Italian sweet wine A traditional Italian dessert wine, made from dried grapes.
Viognier Viognier grape variety White grapes with floral aromas, tropical fruits, famous in the Rhône (France).

22. Terms beginning with the letter W

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Filmmaker Winemaker The person primarily responsible for the production and blending of the wine.
Winery Winery A facility for producing, aging, and bottling wine.
Wine Flight Wine tasting set A collection of small bottles of wine for customers to taste and compare.
Wine Body Alcoholic beverages The sensation of the wine's weight in the mouth — it can be light, medium, or full-bodied.
Film Legs The wine on the glass The trail of wine flowing down the glass reflects the alcohol and sugar content of the wine.

23. Terms beginning with the letter Y

English terminology Vietnamese meaning Detailed explanation
Yeast Alcohol Microorganisms ferment sugar into alcohol and CO₂.
Yield Grape yield The amount of grapes harvested per hectare directly affects the quality of the wine.
Young Wine Young wine Freshly produced wine, not yet aged for a long period, has a fresh, vibrant taste.
Yarra Valley Yarra Valley This region is famous for its grape-growing heritage in Australia, particularly for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

These wine terms are the "key" to elevating your wine-tasting experience. Understanding the meaning of each term not only helps you appreciate wine more deeply but also opens up a journey of discovering the refined culture of wine.

Visit Golden Wine today to choose from a selection of premium wines that perfectly suit your sophisticated taste!

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