Learn about wine

B

balance

A term for when the elements of wine – acids, sugars, tannins, and alcohol – come together in a harmonious way

 

barrel

The oak container used for fermenting and aging wine

 

barrique

A 225-liter oak barrel used originally for storing and aging wines, originating in Bordeaux

 

bitter

A taste sensation that is sensed on the back of the tongue and caused by tannins

Blend

A wine made from more than one grape varietal

 

body

A tactile sensation describing the weight and fullness of wine in the mouth.  Wine can be light, medium, or full-bodied.

 

Bordeaux

The area in Southwest France, considered one of the greatest wine-producing regions in the world. 

 

Botrytis

A beneficial mold that pierces the skin of grapes and causes dehydration, resulting in natural grape juice exceptionally high in sugar.  Botrytis is largely responsible for the world’s finest dessert wines. 

 

bouquet

A term that refers to the complex aromas in aged wines

 

breathing

Exposing the wine to oxygen to improve its flavors  (see “aeration”)

 

Brettanomyces

A wine-spoiling yeast that produces barnyard, mousy, metallic, or bandaid-ish aromas

 

brilliant

A tasting note for wines that appear sparkling clear

brut

French term denoting dry champagnes or sparkling wines

 

bung

The plug used to seal a wine barrel

 

bunghole

The opening in a cask in which wine can be put in or taken out

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