View source for Citrus (note)

'''Citrus (note)''' is a common sensory descriptor in [[wine tasting]], used to describe [[aromas]] and [[flavours]] reminiscent of lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit. It belongs to the broader category of [[fruity (note)]] and is typically associated with freshness, high [[acidity]], and youthful wines<ref>Robinson (ed.), ''The Oxford Companion to Wine'', Oxford University Press, 2015 (entry: aroma descriptors). ISBN 978-0198705383.</ref>.

== Sensory definition ==
Citrus notes are perceived both on the nose and palate, usually described in terms of specific fruits such as lemon, lime, or grapefruit. They are linked to wines where acidity is prominent, reinforcing impressions of brightness and liveliness<ref>Peynaud, ''The Taste of Wine: The Art and Science of Wine Appreciation'', Wiley, 1996. ISBN 978-0471113768.</ref>.

== Chemical origins ==
The compounds most often responsible for citrus descriptors are volatile terpenes, esters, and aldehydes, particularly limonene and citral. These arise from [[grape metabolism]], [[fermentation]] processes, and occasionally [[yeast]] interactions. High levels of [[malic]] and [[tartaric]] acid can also enhance the perception of citrus-like sharpness<ref>Jackson, ''Wine Tasting: A Professional Handbook'', 3rd ed., Academic Press, 2016. ISBN 978-0128025444.</ref>.

== Occurrence in wines ==
Citrus characteristics are especially associated with white [[grape varieties]] such as [[Sauvignon blanc]], [[Riesling]], and [[Chenin blanc]]. Wines from cooler climates, including the [[Loire]] and parts of [[Germany]], often display lemon or lime notes, while warmer zones may emphasise sweeter citrus fruits such as orange or mandarin<ref>Etiévant, ''Le goût et l’odorat dans l’analyse sensorielle des vins'', Lavoisier, 1991. ISBN 978-2852067661.</ref>. In [[sparkling wines]], citrus notes frequently combine with yeasty characters to form a hallmark style.

== Role in tasting and evaluation ==
Professional tasters use citrus descriptors to indicate freshness, clarity of flavour, and potential for [[ageing]]. Lemon and lime notes are often considered markers of precision and youthful acidity, while orange or grapefruit may be associated with ripeness and aromatic intensity. The persistence and balance of citrus flavours are factors in assessing quality and typicity<ref>Peynaud, ''The Taste of Wine: The Art and Science of Wine Appreciation'', Wiley, 1996. ISBN 978-0471113768.</ref>.

== See also ==
* [[Fruity (note)]]
* [[Honey (note)]]
* [[Aroma]]
* [[Wine faults]]

== References ==
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[[Category:Viticulture]]
[[Category:Wine classification]]