Ponderous

/PON-dur-us/

👃Tasting ⚠️Faults

Heavy, sluggish wine lacking energy.

Full Definition

Ponderous describes heavy, sluggish wines that feel laborious to drink. Usually negative, suggesting excessive weight without compensating acidity or energy. Ponderous wines tire the palate quickly. Often results from overripe fruit, high alcohol, or low acidity.

Related Terms

heavy tired fatiguing

See Also

balance acidity

Polished Back to Glossary Port

More terms starting with P

Palate

The taste and texture sensations of wine in the mouth.

Parcelle

A specific plot of vineyard land.

Perlage

The quality and behavior of bubbles in sparkling wine.

Petrol

Kerosene-like aroma in aged Riesling.

pH

Measure of acidity strength in wine.

Phenolics

Chemical compounds affecting color, texture, and flavor.