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Velvety
This term is used for wines that appear to be soft and smooth on the palate and with a very pleasant texture. It is applied mainly to red wines that have been softened by age and by the quality of their tannins.
Vindima
Portuguese term that when used in the singular, represents the grapes themselves. When used in the plural, it means the harvesting or picking of the grape bunches when they have reached their optimum point of ripeness. It can also be used to designate the group of grape bunches once they have reached the collection vat after harvesting. The choice of the exact date for carrying out the harvesting, which is determined by the climatic conditions, is extremely important for ensuring the quality of the future wine.
Vineyard
Land where grape vines grow.
Vin de Garde
French term for a high quality wine that is capable of aging well.
Vinification
Set of procedures that are necessary to transform grapes into wine. There are two types of vinification: vinification of reds and vinification of whites or rosé. The difference between them is that in the vinification of reds, the crushing of the grape only occurs after fermentation whereas in the other type, the procedure is performed as early as possible on the fresh grape and there is no exchange between the solid matter and the actual juice produced. The wine obtained will have little or no colouring and will be less rich in tannins and other elements that are dissolved during the maceration process. In the vinification of reds, the must will remain in contact with the solid matter of the grapes, which is particularly rich in tannins, aromas, minerals, nitrogenous fertilizing and colouring substances. Theses substances are dissolved, to various degrees, in the must and later in the wine.
Viticulture
Grape-growing. Science that studies the combination of procedures used in the planting and maintenance of a vineyard.
Viticulturist
Owner of vineyards that produces his own wine.
Veraison
Term used to describe the change in the grape’s colour towards the end of its development cycle and at the beginning of ripening stage (during the middle of the summer). It is an important moment in the vine’s life. In a matter of days, the white grapes lose their green colour and gain a beautiful yellowish colour. The red grapes become covered in violet-coloured patches and become increasingly darker.
