What does “well-cut” mean when referring to a wine?
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Dear Dr. Vinny,
What does “well-cut” mean when referring to a wine?
—Dina, Hoboken, N.J.
Dear Dina,
No matter the context, “well-cut” is a positive term that signifies quality. Outside of wine, calling a diamond or a suit “well-cut” means those things are made well, with attention to fine details (and often expensive!). In addition to referring to a wine’s overall quality, the term can also be a helpful way to describe an appealing structure. If you’ve seen “well-cut” in a Wine Spectator tasting note, the term was probably being used in this way. A particularly “well-cut” wine will display an attractive balance of its various elements, including acidity, tannin, alcohol and (if applicable) sugar. That balance, in turn, will help create a pleasing mouthfeel and finish, which are both hallmarks of a quality wine.
—Dr. Vinny
