05/28/07 Aroma vs Bouquet

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Are you confused about the difference between the terms aroma and bouquet when describing a wine? Many of the students in my classes are so - on today's program we will describe the differences between the two terms aroma and bouquet. Believe me you are not alone in your confusion about the difference between aroma and bouquet when describing wine. Actually, for years I didn't know if there really was a difference. I simply thought those two words could be used interchangeably to describe the smell of the wine. However, I soon learned there is a difference and it is actually a fairly simple one. Think of it this way, aroma precedes bouquet in the winemaking process the same way "a" precedes "b" in the alphabet. Aroma is the basic fragrance, those first smells of the grapes and the grape juices. They may remind you of fruit, flowers, herbs or spices. While on the other hand, bouquet is referring to the smells that come from the fruit in combination with the second part, the winemaking process. The yeast and fermentation along with oak, age and other contributors transform the smell of the juice. They evolve into a state in which the fragrances are more complex and deeper or layered. Those are the scents that identify the bouquet. So now you know the difference between aroma and bouquet. Have fun with your wine education and remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.