Wine Words Wednesday - C
Welcome back to Wine Words Wednesday, where we break down wine terms to help you feel confident when discussing (and enjoying) your favorite bottles. This week, we’re diving into three wine terms starting with the letter "C" that will help you understand your wine a little better: corked, cuvée, and crisp. Let’s get started!
Wine Words Wednesday - C: Corked, Cuvée, Crisp
CORKED
When a wine is “corked,” it refers to a wine that has been tainted by a compound called TCA (trichloroanisole), which can spoil the flavor and aroma of the wine. You’ll recognize corked wine by its unpleasant, musty smell, often described as wet cardboard or moldy basement. A corked bottle doesn’t mean there are chunks of cork floating in your wine; it’s strictly a problem with contamination from the cork material itself. Unfortunately, once a bottle is corked, the wine is ruined.
Where to get a taste in the Pacific Northwest: Domaine Serene - Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir, OR.
This elegant Pinot Noir offers a complex and balanced profile with notes of dark cherry, spice, and subtle earth, perfect for pairing with roasted meats or enjoying on its own.
Follow @domaineserene
CUVÉE
The term "cuvée" has several meanings, but it generally refers to a specific blend of wines, often from different grapes, vineyards, or even vintages. In sparkling wine, such as Champagne, cuvée typically refers to the first press of juice, considered the finest for making the wine. For still wines, a cuvée might indicate a special blend or reserve wine created by the winemaker to represent the best qualities of their production.
Where to get a taste in the Pacific Northwest: Argyle Winery - Brut Cuvée, OR.
A sparkling blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, this Brut Cuvée delivers crisp bubbles with a refreshing blend of citrus, green apple, and toasted almond notes—ideal for celebrations or casual brunches.
Follow @argylewinery
CRISP
"Crisp" is often used to describe wines with bright acidity and a clean, refreshing finish. It’s that sharp, vibrant quality that makes a wine feel light and lively on the palate. Crisp wines are usually white and make fantastic pairings with food, especially salads, seafood, or dishes with citrus elements. Think of crisp wines as those that leave your mouth watering and eager for another sip.
Where to get a taste in the Pacific Northwest: Owen Roe - Pinot Gris, WA.
This crisp and refreshing white wine offers bright acidity with flavors of pear, melon, and citrus. It's the perfect pairing for light seafood dishes or a relaxing summer afternoon.
Follow @owenroewinery
Cheers to You!
With the knowledge of these three terms—corked, cuvée, and crisp—you’re well on your way to speaking the language of wine. Next time you’re at a wine tasting or picking out a bottle, remember to keep these words in mind to elevate your experience. Stay tuned for more Wine Words Wednesday, where Social Riesling will continue to explore and demystify the world of wine, one letter at a time.