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