Glossary
Bentonite
/BEN-toh-nite/
Clay used for fining wine to remove proteins.
Full Definition
Bentonite is a type of clay used as a fining agent to remove proteins that can cause haze in white wines. It carries a negative charge that attracts positively charged proteins, causing them to precipitate. Bentonite can strip some color and flavor if used excessively. It's one of the most common fining agents.
Related Terms
See Also
Reference
More terms starting with B
Balance
Harmony between wine components: fruit, acid, tannin, alcohol.
Barrel
Wooden container used for fermenting and aging wine.
Barrique
A 225-liter oak barrel, the Bordeaux standard.
Batonnage
Stirring wine on its lees to add texture and complexity.
Biodynamic
Holistic farming approach following Rudolf Steiner's principles.
Bite
A sharp, acidic sensation in wine.