Glossary

Vitis vinifera

/VY-tis vin-IF-er-uh/

The European grape species used for fine wine.

ViticultureGrape Varieties

Full Definition

Vitis vinifera is the European grape species encompassing essentially all fine wine grapes - Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, etc. Native to Europe and Western Asia, it was nearly destroyed by phylloxera in the 1800s and now grows grafted onto American rootstocks worldwide. Other Vitis species are used for rootstocks and hybrids.

Related Terms

phylloxerarootstockvariety

See Also

hybridnative american
ViticultureBack to GlossaryVolatile Acidity

Reference

More terms starting with V

Varietal

Wine named for its grape variety.

Vegetal

Aromas of vegetables or unripe grapes.

Velvety

Smooth, soft, luxurious texture like velvet.

Veraison

The onset of ripening when grapes change color.

Vertical Tasting

Comparing multiple vintages from one producer.

Vigor

The growth energy and vegetative power of a vine.