Aubun

A variety from the Southern Rhone similar to Carignan but with less colour and tannin. The Aubin can be slightly bitter.

Aligote

Believed to have originated in Burgundy, the Aligote now plays second fiddle to Chardonnay both in quantity and status. It is a vigorous vine with erratic yields and produces quite acidic simple wines. The Aligote is traditionally used to make the liqueur

Altesse

The origins of Altesse (also known as Roussette) are not known and the low yields probably restrict its use. Altesse is one of the best white grapes in the region of Savoy, producing full bodied, aromatic, spicy wines with good flavour, acidity and ageing

Arbois

The Arbois is mainly confined to the vineyards around Orleans in the Loire and produces vigorous, soft wines of only moderate quality.

Arrufiac

Arrufiac is peculiar to the wines of Gascony and is usually blended with Petit Corbu. The perfume is often described as "gunflint" and the alcoholic content is low.

Aubin

An almost extinct variety from the Cotes de Toul.

Auxerrois

The Auxerrois was once an important grape variety in Alsace and is a major part of Edelzwicker. If the yields are controlled it can produce rich wines with a bouquet of honey that are well worth ageing.

Acetic

The smell of acetic acid (vinegar). All wines contain some acetic acid but too much indicates a faulty wine.

Acid

A vital component of wine, adding zest and refreshment - tartaric and malic acids are most common.

Acidify

The addition of acid to the must to improve balance.

Acidity

All wines need acidity to remain fresh and lively but too much acidity is a flaw.

Aftertaste

The sensation of taste and smell left in the mouth after swallowing or spitting. This is most often described as the Length of a wine and, assuming that is a good taste, is an indicator of quality.

Aggressive

Aggressive wines are harsh because of a high level of tannin and/or acid.

Angular

Lacking in roundness or depth or too much acidity.

Aroma

The smell of the wine. Aroma is often used for young wines and Bouquet for mature wines.

Aromatic

Grapes and wines with a pronounced or distinctive aroma are said to be aromatic.

Astringent

An astringent wine is not necessarily a bad wine, it could just be young and high in tannin. High levels of acidity could also be the cause. Astringent wines cause the gums to dry or pucker.

Austere

Not particularly enjoyable wines, being hard and coarse due to an excess of tannin or acid in a poorly made wine or in a wine that is too young to drink and needs time to mellow.