ABV

/ay-bee-VEE/
🍷Winemaking📊Business

Alcohol By Volume - the percentage of alcohol in wine.

Full Definition

ABV (Alcohol By Volume) measures the percentage of ethanol in a beverage. Wine typically ranges from 5.5% (Moscato d'Asti) to 16%+ (Amarone). ABV must appear on wine labels in most countries. It affects body, sweetness perception, and aging potential. Hot climates and riper grapes tend to produce higher ABV wines.

Related Terms

alcoholfermentationchapitalization

See Also

bodybalance
1855 ClassificationBack to GlossaryAcetaldehyde

More terms starting with A

Acetaldehyde

A chemical compound formed during fermentation and oxidation.

Acetic Acid

The acid responsible for vinegar character in wine.

Acidity

The tart, sharp quality in wine from natural grape acids.

Adega

Portuguese term for winery or wine cellar.

Aeration

Exposing wine to air to soften tannins and release aromas.

Aging

The maturation of wine over time in barrel, tank, or bottle.