Definition

Noun: A wine that is made primarily from a single named grape variety and is labeled with the name of that grape. This classification emphasizes the dominant grape used in production, as opposed to a blend.

Usage

The term is used to identify and market wines based on their primary grape component. It is a standard category in wine labeling, especially in regions like the United States, Australia, and South America. - The store's selection is organized by country and then by varietal wine. - For a classic example of a varietal wine, try a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley.

Advanced Usage

• Regulatory Context: In many wine-producing countries, laws define the minimum percentage (e.g., 75% or 85%) of the named grape required for a wine to be labeled as a varietal wine.
• Contrast with "Blend": The concept exists in contrast to wines that are blends of multiple grapes, which may be labeled by region (e.g., Bordeaux blend) or proprietary name.

Variants and Related Words

• Varietal (noun/adjective): Commonly used as a shorter form. As a noun: "This Chardonnay is a popular varietal." As an adjective: "This bottle shows strong varietal character of Pinot Noir."
• Varietal Character: A phrase describing the distinctive aroma and flavor profile associated with a specific grape variety.

Synonyms

• Single-variety wine
• Grape-named wine

Antonyms

• Blended wine
• Generic wine (e.g., "red table wine")

Related Phrases/Concepts

• Appellation wine: A wine defined and labeled by its geographic region of origin, which may or may not be a varietal wine.
• Estate wine: A wine produced from grapes grown on the winery's own property. An estate wine can also be a varietal wine.

Noun

1. a wine made principally from one grape and carrying the name of that grape