Inorganic
Petrichor
Definition
The smell of rain on dry earth — sometimes evoked in mineral, earthy whites and cool-climate reds after rain-soaked terroir.
Why this matters in wine
Earthy-mineral aroma associated with wet stone and damp soil after rainfall.
Typical aromas, flavors & texture
- Some Jura whites
- Cool-climate Pinot Noir
Position inside its category
Petrichor
Parent category
Inorganic — Non-fruit, mineral, and textural descriptors — the stoniness, petrol, and tactile qualities that define terroir and winemaking texture.
Sibling descriptors
More in Inorganic
Frequently confused with
FAQ
- What does petrichor mean in wine?
- The smell of rain on dry earth — sometimes evoked in mineral, earthy whites and cool-climate reds after rain-soaked terroir.
- Why does petrichor matter for pairing?
- Earthy-mineral aroma associated with wet stone and damp soil after rainfall.