Baumé

Definition:

A sugar scale for grapes that basically says, “This grape is sweet now, but in a few months, it’ll be the life of the party in your glass.”

Why it Matters:

For winemakers, the Baumé scale is like peeking into a crystal ball filled with cabernet juice. It measures the sugar in grapes, which translates directly into how boozy the finished wine will be. The higher the sugar, the higher the potential alcohol once fermentation works its magic. In other words, Baumé is the “future proof” of wine.

Bartenders may not be pulling out hydrometers mid-shift, but this little scale still matters. Why? Because every wine behind the bar; whether it’s being poured straight or used in a cocktail... was crafted with this balance in mind. The alcohol level determines if that wine will hold up in a spritz, blend harmoniously in sangria, or knock you sideways after a second glass. The Baumé scale isn’t just for winemakers; it’s the silent math behind whether your cocktail ends with polite conversation or karaoke at full volume.