Indicates the degree of tartness in the wine due to natural acids in the grape.

A well-balanced wine, pleasant to drink.

Refers to the smell of the wine as it relates to its varietal fruit character.

A wine containing too much tannin which leaves you with a dry "popsicle stick" sensation on your tongue and palate.

Assertively tart and lacking body.

The right proportion of fruit, acid, tannin and varietal character.

The impression of fullness or roundness in the mouth.

The aromatic scent as expressed by the winemaking process; the combination of varietal fruit character with all the elements of aging wine.

Rich, oily texture. Usually used when describing chardonnay.

A well-made wine with no "off" or disagreeable aromas or tastes.

Showing a variety of subtle scents and flavors.

Applies to wines that are light - usually white, young and fresh.

Without the impression of sweetness.

Well-balanced with finesse; a truely fine wine.

Too soft or flat; lacking acidity and without character.

Dry, clean, sharp, stelly; often used to describe French Chablis.

An appealing fragrance; almost floral.

Young, lively and clean.

A full-bodied wine having a high quality and rich in body.

The smell of grass or newly-mowed hay; often describes Fume blanc.

Unripe, unbalanced acidity; raw taste.

An astringent wine from high tannin levels that will soften with age.

Lacking in body, color or alcohol (but still pleasant to the taste).

Usually young, fruity wines with a little carbon dioxide.

Exhibits the benefits of aging where all the elements have come together. 

Average in extract, alcohol, aroma and flavor.

The combination of aroma and bouquet of the wine.

The smell and/or flavor associated with aging wine in small oak barrels. When properly integrated, a positive element.

A light and easy-to-drink wine; good for pool picnics.

Well-balanced, mature wine without harshness.

The distinctive character of wood smoke.

Soft, balanced.

Restrained in character.

A quality wine with smooth or few tannins; easy to drink.

Extract of the skin and stems of the grapes; creates astringency or a drying effect.

Acidic; in excess, can make you pucker as with lemons.

Lacking in body and alcohol; watery; will not improve with age.

Young wine tasting of yeast, as in fresh bread. When a nuttier impression can apply to sparkling wines.