wein.plus
Attention
You are using an old browser that may not function as expected.
For a better, safer browsing experience, please upgrade your browser.


You can also use our powerful search function with many flexible filters, such as:

Log in Become a Member

volatile

The term "volatile" refers to the tendency of a substance to change into the gaseous state. This is caused by comparatively weak intermolecular forces of attraction between the molecules. The opposite term is non-volatile, which refers to substances that cannot change into the gas phase due to stronger molecular forces. You never perceive the substance itself; perceived odours come exclusively from volatile molecules such as accompanying substances, impurities or reaction products.

All fragrances in wine are volatile aromatic substances, as they can only be perceived olfactorily(smelling) or trigeminally(sense of touch) in vaporised form. However, the boundary to taste sensations is blurred, as olfactory and gustatory (tasting) impressions strongly influence each other. Volatility is therefore initially a neutral, physical term and not an indication of good or bad quality.

Voices of our members

Hans-Georg Schwarz

As honorary chairman of the Domäne Wachau, it is the easiest and quickest way for me to access the wein.plus encyclopaedia when I have questions. The certainty of receiving well-founded and up-to-date information here makes it an indispensable guide.

Hans-Georg Schwarz
Ehrenobmann der Domäne Wachau (Wachau)

The world's largest Lexicon of wine terms.

26,792 Keywords · 47,079 Synonyms · 252,656 Cross-references
made with by our author Norbert F. J. Tischelmayer. About the Lexicon

EVENTS NEAR YOU

PREMIUM PARTNERS

wein.plus

Your approval is required –
if you are not a Premium Member

Read with advertising

... or become a Premium Member

Enjoy wein.plus without advertising and tracking by third parties!

Already wein.plus–Premium Member?