Here are the definitions for the letter "v"

Page: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 >>

VACCARÈSE

Minor grape grown in the southern Rhone region of France. Used to create color, body etc. in local red wines. Reportedly is responsible, in part, for the characteristic "pepper, tobacco, licorice" aroma detected in blended wines from this region.

VALDEPEÑAS

Red wine grape grown in California and capable of producing excellent wine. (See Tempranillo above).

VALDIGUIÉ

Warm region minor grape widely grown in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France and known also under the alias name of Gros Auxerrois. Used to create backbone in the high alcohol "vin de table" red wine blends that originate from the Midi. In California it has the alias name of Napa Gamay and can produce surprisingly good wine. (See above).

Vanilla

A scent imparted by aging in oak.

Vanilla (see also Sweet, Tarlike)

Component detectable in the "nose" of a wine. The novice taster can compare odours with the vials of artificial ones provided in kit form.

Vanillin

Component contributed by oakwood barrel staves. Considered to add a degree of "sweetness" to red wines when present in barely detectable amounts, so adding to a desirably complex style prized by connoisseurs.

Varietal Character

The aromas and taste sensations typical of a particular grape variety.

Varietal Character (see also Breed, Herb

The particular flavour characteristics associated with a grape picked at optimum maturity - (eg: distinctive "berrylike" taste of California Zinfandels, "blackcurrants" of Cabernet Sauvignon etc).

Vegetal

A word applied to wines that smell or taste like plants or green vegetables; too much vegetal character can detract from the enjoyment of a wine.

Vegetal (see also Earthy, Leafy, Yeasty/

Considered a flavour flaw when present in distinctive amounts over and above that occurring naturally in the grape. "Grassy" has somewhat the same connotation.

VELTLINER

(See Grüner Veltliner above).

Velvety

Smooth and rich in texture.

Velvety

A soft, silky, lush tactile impression found in the best Burgundies and Pinot Noirs.

Vendange (France)

Harvest.

Vendange tardive (France)

Delayed harvest. Wines labelled as such usually have a sweet palate.