Tartrates

/TAR-trayts/

Harmless crystals that precipitate from wine.

Full Definition

Tartrates (wine diamonds) are crystalline deposits of potassium bitartrate that form when wine is chilled. They're completely harmless and indicate the wine wasn't heavily cold-stabilized. Often seen on corks or as sediment. More common in premium wines that minimize intervention.

Related Terms

tartaric acid cold stabilization sediment

See Also

crystals clarification

Tartaric Acid Back to Glossary Tastevin

More terms starting with T

Tannin

Polyphenols creating dry, astringent mouthfeel.

Tartaric Acid

The primary acid in wine grapes.

TCA

Chemical compound causing cork taint.

Terroir

The complete natural environment affecting wine character.

Tertiary Aromas

Complex aromas developed through aging.

Texture

The tactile sensation of wine in the mouth.