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If you’ve ever read a description of wine and thought, “What on earth does that even mean?” you’re not alone. The world of wine is full of fancy words that sound like they belong in a poetry book, not on a bottle label. But fear not! Today, we’re breaking down two key terms—body and finish—so you can sip like a pro.

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What Does “Body” Mean?

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When wine enthusiasts talk about a wine’s “body,” they’re not referring to how it looks in a swimsuit. Instead, body is all about how heavy or light the wine feels in your mouth. Think of it as the milk analogy:

• Light-bodied wines are like skim milk—delicate, refreshing, and easygoing. Think Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand’s Marlborough region, bursting with zesty citrus and herbaceous flavours.

• Medium-bodied wines are like regular milk—not too heavy, not too light, just right. New Zealand’s Pinot Noir is a perfect example. It has enough oomph to be taken seriously but won’t knock you over.

• Full-bodied wines are the cream—rich, bold, and satisfying. These are your New Zealand Syrahs or Chardonnay from Hawke’s Bay, where the warmer climate creates wines with serious presence.

So, next time someone asks, “What body do you prefer?” you can confidently answer without feeling like you’re in a gym class.

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And What’s the Deal with “Finish”?

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The “finish” isn’t about how quickly you can empty your glass (though, no judgment here). It’s actually the taste that lingers after you’ve swallowed your wine. A good finish is like the encore of a concert—you’re left savouring the moment long after it’s over.

Here are a few types of finishes you might encounter:

• Crisp finish: Usually found in white wines like New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc, a crisp finish leaves you with a refreshing, zippy feeling, like biting into a green apple.

• Smooth finish: This is the wine equivalent of a gentle hug. You’ll often find it in reds like Pinot Noir, where soft tannins glide across your palate.

• Long finish: A wine with a long finish lingers, making you think about it long after your sip is gone. New Zealand’s rich, spicy Syrahs from Gimblett Gravels are known for this.

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Why Do These Terms Matter?

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Understanding body and finish helps you decode what you like in a wine. Do you prefer something light and zesty for a picnic? Go for a light-bodied wine with a crisp finish. Want something bold to pair with a steak? Look for a full-bodied wine with a long, lingering finish.

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The Fun Part: Tasting!

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Now that you know the lingo, the best way to truly understand body and finish is to experience them yourself. Grab a few different bottles of New Zealand wine, pour a glass, and start sipping! With every swirl and sip, you’ll unlock new flavours and textures—and maybe even impress your friends with your fancy wine vocab.

Create an account with us today, let the laughter begin and receive a $10 off coupon to kickstart your New Zealand wine journey with us. Cheers to drinking smarter, not harder!