Erste Lage

Designation which indicates a “First Class” vineyard, similar to the designation “Premier Cru” in Burgundy. The designation used by the 200 plus members of the VDP. The term Erste Lage generally appears on the neck label. See VDP.

Which word below refers to the idea that a substance, an animal, or a plant has a specific quality that’s perceptible to our olfactory senses?

A. Aroma

B. Odor

C. Scent

D. Smell

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, although scent, smell, odor and aroma are often used interchangeably, those four words mean slightly different things. Scent applies to the specific smell given off by a substance, an animal, or a plant. (As in: this cabernet franc has the scent of violets). Smell implies solely the sensation without suggestion of quality or character. (As in: a unique smell wafted out of the glass). Odor may imply a stronger or more readily distinguished scent or it may be equivalent to smell. (A wine with a strong odor). Aroma suggests a somewhat penetrating, usually pleasant odor. (The aroma of zinfandel just beginning to ferment).

“Oak should fit into a wine like a shoulder pad in a coat–barely there. But if the guy is too scrawny or the shoulder pad is too big, the whole thing looks stupid.”

—John Kongsgaard
Kongsgaard Wine, Napa Valley

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