Glossary
Rootstock
/ROOT-stok/
Root system onto which fruiting vines are grafted.
Full Definition
Rootstock is the root system onto which fruiting grape varieties are grafted. After phylloxera devastated European vines, American species (resistant to the pest) became universal rootstocks. Different rootstocks affect vigor, drought tolerance, soil adaptation, and even wine character. Most vines worldwide are grafted.
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.