N

NEBUCHADNEZZAR

A large format champagne bottle, equivalent to twenty standard bottles.​

NÉGOCIANT (FRENCH)

It is a term used to describe a winemaker who buys grapes or juice (fermented or unfermented) and then completes the winemaking process. The wine will then be bottled under its label but may sometimes reference another source of the grapes. Many négociants also own some vineyards as another source of grapes. Although the system does not sound like it will result in great wine, many négociants – who operate extensively in Burgundy – produce benchmark examples and perform a very important role.

​​

NEW WORLD

Broadly, the world of wine is divided into the Old World and the New World. The New World includes North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand. New World countries have seen explosions in quality and quantity of wine within the last few decades, although some have been producing wine for centuries. However, the dividing line between New and Old is unclear.

​​

NOBLE ROT

A fungal infection caused by Botrytis cinerea. Under the right conditions – damp, misty mornings followed by warm, sunny afternoons – Noble Rot a manifest, which leaves the grapes shriveled, dehydrated, and thus rich in sugar and also unique Botrytis-derived flavors. It is an essential ingredient in Sauternes, Tokay and other sweet wines of Germany and Austria. Under the wrong conditions the result of infection is Grey Rot.

​​

APÉRITIF

A French word that describes an alcoholic beverage served before dinner to stimulate appetite.​