Glossary
Bitter
/BIT-er/
One of the basic tastes, detected at the back of the tongue.
Full Definition
Bitter is one of five basic tastes, detected primarily at the back of the tongue. In wine, bitterness comes from tannins, particularly from grape seeds and stems or excessive oak extraction. Some bitterness is characteristic of certain varieties (Nebbiolo) and styles. Excessive bitterness is a fault.
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.