Click to access introductory wine glossary pages: A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  R  S  T  U  V  W  Y  Z 

Maceration
Maceration is the process of soaking the skins and perhaps the stems of red grapes in the wine to extract aroma, color, and tannin.

Macroclimate
Macroclimate describes the average, overall weather conditions in a large winegrowing region, such as Bordeaux, France or Napa Valley, California. Contrast this term with mesoclimate and microclimate.
Malic acid
Malic acid is a major component of a wine’s acidity. It has a sharp taste that reminds one of a tangy green apple. This taste may be appreciated in white wines, however, it is usually not appreciated in reds.
Malolactic fermentation
In malolactic fermentation bacteria convert the harsh malic acid found in grapes into the softer, rounder lactic acid associated with milk. Malolactic fermentation occurs naturally with red wines, but may be encouraged or blocked. It is uncommon in white wines, except for Chardonnays that may acquire a buttery taste.
Meritage
Meritage is an American trademark for California wines that are a blend of Bordeaux grape varieties. Among the grapes used for red Meritage wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Among the grapes used for white Meritage wines are Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Meritage wines are usually expensive.
Mesoclimate
Mesoclimate is the specific climate of a small area such as a vineyard or a hillside. Contrast this term with macroclimate and microclimate.
Microclimate
Microclimate is the specific climate immediately around the vine. It may be modified by canopy management. Contrast microclimate with mesoclimate and macroclimate. With its mountains, hills, valleys, and bodies of water Italy has multiple, multiple microclimates.
Mildew
Mildew is a vineyard fungus that damages and destroys the grape crop. Growers defend the crops by using copper sulfate or sulfur.
Must
The must is the mixture of fermenting crushed grapes and juice. It may include seeds, skins, and stems.
Must weight
The must weight indicates the sugar content in the fermenting wine. Different winemaking countries use different scales to measure this important quantity.
       Click to access introductory wine glossary pages: A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  R  S  T  U  V  W  Y  Z