TCA
TCA
TCA stands for 2,4,6-trichloroanisole, a chemical compound that causes “cork taint”. It forms when natural fungi in corks or wooden barrels interact with chlorine in cleaning products, resulting in musty, moldy or wet cardboard aromas in wines. Although it is harmless to drink, it ruins wine quality and strips it of its fruit flavors. TCA can be detected at extremely low levels and it affectes approximately 2-7% of wines sealed with natural cork.
See Also
Maceration
Maceration in wine is the process of soaking crushed grape skins, seeds and stems in the juice (must) to extract color, tannins and aroma compounds.
Yield
The yield signifies the amount of grapes or wine produced from a specific vineyard area, commonly measured in tons per acre in the US, or hectoliters per hectare in Europe. Lower yields are associated with better quality, while higher yields produce lighter and less concentrated wines.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen in the air comes in contact with the alcohol in wine, converting ethanol into acetaldehyde, then acetic acid. It causes wines to lose their vibrant colors and reduces fresh fruit aromas.
Aging
Aging is a post fermentation process where wine rests in barrels (mainly oak) or bottles to undergo chemical changes that improves stability, develops complex flavors and clarifies the liquid.
Hybrid
Hybrid varieties are created by crossing two or more different grapevine species to get a final product that offers resistance to cold, diseases and humidity, making them ideal for tough climates.
pH
The pH of wine is the measure of its total acidity (hydrogen ion concentration), typically ranging from 2.9 to 4.0 in most wines.
Oak
Oak imparts flavor, aroma and texture into wines through fermentation in oak barrels. These barrels act as gentle, breathable vessels that add complex notes and improve the wine's overall structure and mouthfeel.
Viticulture
Viticulture is the branch of science that deals with the study, cultivation and harvesting of grapes specifically for winemaking. It includes all vineyard activities, such as planting, pruning, training vines, soil irrigation and pest control.