Volatile

Advanced Tasting & Sensory

Definition

Aromas that are easily vaporized and perceived by the nose.

In Depth

All wine aroma compounds are technically volatile — they evaporate at room temperature and reach our olfactory receptors. However, 'volatile' in wine parlance often implies excess volatile acidity (vinegar-like character). A wine described as 'showing some volatility' has noticeable but not necessarily faulty acetic acid or ethyl acetate.

Details

Category
Tasting & Sensory
Difficulty
Advanced

Part of the Beverage FYI Family

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