Wine Composition, Chemistry, and Faults Flashcards
Define the 5 major components of wine
Water
Alcohol
Sugar
Acid
Phenolic Compounds
Define Tartaric Acid in wine
Most prevalent acid compound found in wines, strongest pH, can form white crystals in bottles
Discuss Malic Acid in grapes
Under-ripe grapes and cool climate grapes have a high level of Malic Acid, which decreased during ripening phase while on the vine
Discuss Citric Acid in grapes
Exists in very low levels naturally in grapes, but can be added to wine to increase overall acidity
Discuss Lactic Acids’ use in wine production
This acid does not exist naturally in grapes, however, created by bacteria during malolactic fermentation, converting Malic Acids into Lactic Acids in wine
What is Acetic Acid
A type of acid found in most vinegars
How is Succinic Acid produced
A minor component of grapes that is a natural bi-product of fermentation
What is the typical pH range of wine
2.9 to 3.9
Define Anthocyanthins
A phenolic compound that gives red wine its’ color, a redder color for wines higher in acid and a bluer hue for less acidic wines
Define Flavones/Flavonols
A phenolic compound in the form of yellow pigments found in white wines, increased in grapes with more exposure to sunlight
Define Tannins
Astringent or bitter compounds found in the seeds, skins, and stems of grapes, as well as in oak wood and can act as a natural preservative
Define Vanillin
An aromatic phenolic compound found in oak that imparts a vanilla scent to wines aged in new oak
Define Resveratrol
A phenolic compound in wine believed to have numerous health benefits
What is Trichloroanisole (TCA)
Cork taint, caused by mold that can grow within or on cork trees and in wineries, estimated to affect 1-10% of bottles
What odor does Sulfur Dioxide give in a wine
Burnt Matches
