Primary Aromas

/PRY-mair-ee uh-ROH-muhz/

Aromas derived from the grape variety itself.

Full Definition

Primary aromas come from the grape variety - the characteristic scents that define varietal identity. Examples: Riesling's citrus and petrol, Sauvignon Blanc's grass and grapefruit, Cabernet's cassis. Primary aromas are strongest in young wines and are distinct from secondary (fermentation) and tertiary (aging) aromas.