Glossary

Winemaker

/WINE-may-ker/

The person responsible for producing wine.

WinemakingBusiness

Full Definition

The winemaker (vinificateur, oenologue, cellar master) oversees all aspects of wine production - harvest decisions, fermentation, aging, blending, and bottling. Philosophy varies from interventionist (controlling every detail) to minimalist (letting terroir express itself). Many winemakers also manage viticulture; others focus solely on cellar work.

Related Terms

enologistviticulturistcellar master

See Also

winemakingphilosophy
Wine LakeBack to GlossaryWinery

Reference

More terms starting with W

Weight

The heaviness or lightness of wine on the palate.

Whole Cluster

Fermenting with grape stems intact.

Wine Faults

Defects that diminish wine quality.

Warm Climate

Wine region with high temperatures during growing season.

Whole Bunch

Fermenting grapes with stems intact.

Wine Lake

European surplus wine from overproduction subsidies.