Glossary

Solera

/soh-LAIR-ah/

Fractional blending system for consistent aged character.

Winemaking

Full Definition

Solera is a fractional blending system where wine is partially transferred through a series of barrels containing progressively older wine. New wine enters the youngest level; final product is drawn from the oldest. This maintains consistent style while incorporating aged character. Essential for Sherry and some Madeira production.

Related Terms

sherryfractional blendingcriadera

See Also

oxidative agingconsistency
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Reference

More terms starting with S

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Bleeding off juice from red wine tanks to make rose.

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Italy's most planted red grape, the base of Chianti.

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Metal closure alternative to cork.

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Solid particles that settle in wine over time.