
Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, or "Vinny" for short. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the technical aspects of winemaking to the fine points of etiquette. I hope you find my answers educational and even amusing. Looking for a particular answer? Check my archive and my FAQs.
Dear Dr. Vinny,
I see the term "racy" used a lot in the tasting notes of Wine Spectator. What does this adjective really mean in the context of smell and taste?
—Not So Fast, New York
Dear N.S.F.,
"Racy" refers to a style, not a smell or taste. A racy wine has lively acidity. It's not going to be thick or heavy, it's going to be juicy and light. To give you some non-wine context, a tart, mouthwatering lemonade is racy compared to a thick, creamy milkshake.
—Dr. VinnyDo you have a question for Dr. Vinny? Ask it here...
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