Glossary
Aggressive
/uh-GRES-iv/
Wine with harsh tannins or acidity that dominates.
Full Definition
Aggressive describes wines with overly assertive tannins, acidity, or alcohol that overwhelm other components. Young wines may be aggressive but soften with age. Permanently aggressive wines are unbalanced. It's a negative descriptor indicating poor harmony, though some young wines intended for aging may show temporary aggression.
Related Terms
See Also
Reference
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.