varietally

Varietally is an adverb formed from varietal, an adjective referring to a specific variety, most commonly a grape variety in viticulture and enology. In wine writing, varietally describes traits that are characteristic of a particular variety, as distinct from those shaped by terroir, vintage, or winemaking choices. The term mirrors the noun varietal, used to denote a wine labeled by grape variety.

In practice, a wine described as varietally true or varietally expressive is said to display the typical aroma and flavor profile associated with that grape. For example, a varietally Sauvignon Blanc is expected to show varietal notes such as gooseberry, grass, and citrus, even when grown in different regions. Critics may use varietally as an evaluative standard for whether a wine aligns with the grape's characteristic identity.

Beyond wine, varietally can describe features attributed to any plant variety or cultivar. The adverb is used when noting attributes that arise from the particular genetic variety rather than from environmental factors alone, though in practice, varietal character often reflects an interaction of variety with climate and cultivation.

Etymology: varietal comes from variety; the adverb form is created with the suffix -ly. The term is primarily encountered in English-language wine criticism and botany.