Glossary
Retronasal
/RET-roh-NAY-zul/
Perceiving aromas through the back of the throat.
Full Definition
Retronasal refers to perceiving aromas through the passage connecting throat to nasal cavity, as wine is swallowed or held in mouth. Most of what we call 'taste' is actually retronasal smell. It's why wine tastes different from how it smells, and why holding your nose reduces flavor perception.
Related Terms
See Also
Reference
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.
Reserve
A designation suggesting higher quality or longer aging.
Residual Sugar
Sugar remaining in wine after fermentation.