Aroma refers to the smells of a wine, especially those derived from the grape and fermentation (primary and secondary aromas), as opposed to 'bouquet', which traditionally describes the complex scents developed through aging. Aromas span fruit, flowers, herbs, spice, earth and mineral notes. Because most of what we perceive as flavour is actually smell, aroma is at the heart of tasting and quality assessment.
WHY IT MATTERS FOR COLLECTORS
A wine's aroma is its first and often most revealing signal. Muted aromas can indicate a closed young wine, cold serving temperature or a fault; vivid, layered aromatics suggest quality and readiness.
Related terms
Put your wine knowledge to work
Know what to open tonight — and never miss a wine at its peak.
Build a cellar, track windows, and pair from what you actually own.
Free Taster: up to 100 bottles · 20 AI scans · 10 pairings / month
Free forever · No credit card