Reserve

/rih-ZURV/

A designation suggesting higher quality or longer aging.

Full Definition

Reserve implies special selection, longer aging, or higher quality, but meaning varies by country. In Spain and Italy (Reserva/Riserva), it mandates minimum aging. In the US, it has no legal definition - it's marketing. Reserve wines may or may not be superior to non-reserve. Always check regional regulations.

Related Terms

reserva riserva gran reserva

See Also

aging classification

Reserva Back to Glossary Residual Sugar

More terms starting with R

Racking

Transferring wine off its sediment.

Racy

Wine with vibrant, energetic acidity.

Reduction

Sulfur compounds from lack of oxygen, creating off-odors.

Remuage

Gradually rotating sparkling wine bottles to collect sediment.

Residual Sugar

Sugar remaining in wine after fermentation.

Resveratrol

Antioxidant compound found in grape skins.