A white wine with floral notes, a red with cherry aromas, or a barrel-aged wine with vanilla scents… Wine tasting draws on a true sensory universe. But one question often comes up: are these aromas added to the wine? The answer is simple: no.
No added aromas—only nature and chemistry
Contrary to some common misconceptions, wine contains no added aromas. The scents we perceive come naturally from chemical compounds present in the grapes, developed during fermentation or revealed during ageing. These are mainly aromatic molecules that evaporate and stimulate our sense of smell.
Molecules found in many foods
Some wine aromas evoke well-known fruits or spices. This is explained by the presence of similar molecular structures in different foods.
For example, a light, fruity Gamay may evoke strawberry. This sensation is linked to furaneol (or strawberry furanone), a molecule that is also found in… tomatoes or fresh pineapple. So it is not strawberry that is in the wine, but a shared molecule that creates this impression.
Why some wines evoke citrus or dark fruits
In a Petite Arvine, citrus notes are often found. Here again, compounds similar to those present in lemon explain this sensation of freshness and liveliness.
The same phenomenon is found in other grape varieties. Sauvignon Blanc can develop blackcurrant aromas, while Syrah is renowned for its peppery notes. As for Valais wines, Cornalin frequently offers cherry aromas, much appreciated for their intensity and generosity.
The role of grape variety, terroir and ageing
A wine’s aromas depend on several factors: the grape variety, of course, but also the terroir, the climate, grape ripeness and winemaking methods. Ageing in oak barrels, for example, can bring woody, vanilla or toasted notes, without any aromas being added.
Learning to recognise wine aromas
Understanding the origin of aromas helps you appreciate wine more fully and refine your tasting. Each glass then becomes a sensory exploration, where you learn to identify, compare and put words to your sensations.
Ultimately, wine does not cheat: everything you smell comes from nature, the grapes and the winemaker’s expertise. And that is precisely what makes it so rich.
