Inorganic
Unctuous
Definition
Rich, oily mouthfeel — often from lees, malolactic fermentation, or ripe extract in full whites.
Why this matters in wine
Textural descriptor for oily, coating palate weight.
Typical aromas, flavors & texture
- Oaked Chardonnay
- Viognier
- Semillon
Position inside its category
Unctuous
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 unctuous mean in wine?
- Rich, oily mouthfeel — often from lees, malolactic fermentation, or ripe extract in full whites.
- Why does unctuous matter for pairing?
- Textural descriptor for oily, coating palate weight.