Wine A to Z

Off flavours

Undesirable flavours perceived by the mouth.

Off-dry

Very slightly sweet.

Old vines

Labelling term intended to indicate quality on the basis that older vines make better wine - although since there is no precise definition of what age of vine constitutes “old”, such claims be viewed with circumspection.

Over-aged

A general breakdown of wine kept too long in cooperage or bottle; oxidised.

Oxidised

A wine that has been spoiled by exposure to oxygen – indicted by browning in colour, a “sherryish” whiff on the nose, and a flat palate.