Glossary
Finesse
/fih-NESS/
Elegance, subtlety, and delicate precision in wine.
Full Definition
Finesse describes wines showing elegance, subtlety, and refined precision rather than power or weight. A wine with finesse has delicate complexity, fine-grained textures, and seamless balance. The term implies quality and sophistication. Often applied to Burgundy, Champagne, and top Riesling.
Related Terms
See Also
Reference
More terms starting with F
Fermentation
The conversion of sugar to alcohol by yeast.
Field Blend
Multiple grape varieties planted and harvested together.
Filtration
Removing particles from wine by passing through a filter.
Finish
The taste and sensations that linger after swallowing.
Fining
Clarifying wine by adding substances that bind with particles.
First Growth
The top-ranked estates in Bordeaux's 1855 Classification.