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Fermentation
The process by which sugar is transformed into ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide, by the growth of yeast in grape juice. The process continues until either all sugar is converted or the yeasts become inhibited by the alcohol produced (usually around 15%). |
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Fermented "on the skins"
A term used to indicate that the wine was fermented with the juice and skins together - the process used to make red wine. Separation and discarding of solids is done only after the fermentation is completed. With very tannic grapes, the winemaker may draw the new wine away from the solids before the fermentation is fully complete. |
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Filtration
Winemaking process to remove solid particles and bacteria suspended in wine. |
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Fining
The process of clarifying or removing undesirable suspended solids from wine. This is usually done by adding fining agents such as egg white, gelatine and Bentonite clay. |
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Finish
A tasting term used to describe the lingering aftertaste of a wine after it has been swallowed. |
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Flat
A tasting term used to describe a wine lacking in acidity and crispness. Flat wines are difficult to drink and enjoy even if the flavour is good. In sparkling wines flat means the wine lacks carbonation. |
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Flavour intensity
The degree to which a wine's flavours are pronounced and clearly discernible. |
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Flinty
A tasting term used to describe white wine that has an austere, dry, clean taste. |
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Flowery
A tasting term used to describe wine with an exceptionally aromatic character reminiscent of fresh garden flowers. |
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Fortified wine
Wine to which alcohol has been added, generally to increase the concentration to a high enough level to prevent fermentation. |
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Free run
Juice obtained from grapes that have not yet been pressed. |
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Fruity
A tasting term used to describe wine that display aromas and flavours suggestive of fruit. It can apply to aromas or flavours suggestive of fresh fruit, dried fruit or cooked fruit. |
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Full (-bodied)
A tasting term used to describe wines that give the impression of being large in the mouth, often coincides with high alcohol wines. |
