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

orthonasal olfactory aroma

See Also

Resveratrol Back to Glossary Rich

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.