The Word Cellar (aka "Wine Term Glossary")

Welcome to The Word Cellar - our cozy vault of wine wisdom. This is where grape geeks and curious sippers alike can pop the cork on wine terms without feeling like they’ve wandered into a chemistry exam. From “acidity” to “zesty” (and everything in between), we break down the jargon with humor, heart, and just enough nerdiness to impress your friends at the next tasting.

Think of it as your personal translator for wine-speak: less “Sommelier Latin,” more “plain English with a wink.” Whether you’re here to finally understand what “tannins” are, or to discover why “legs” have nothing to do with dance class, you’ll find it here; aged to perfection and ready to pour.

ABC
AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée)
AVA (American Viticultural Area)
Acidity
Aeration
Aftertaste
Aged Wine
Aging
Aging barrel
Alcohol
Alcohol by volume (ABV)
Alsace
Amarone
Anosmia
Aperitif
Appellation
Aroma
Astringency
Bacchus
Bacterial Spoilage
Balance
Balthazar
Ban de Vendange
Barrel
Barrel Fermentation
Barrique
Baumé
Beaujolais