vinoviivalla

Vinoviivalla is a Finnish term that translates to "wine line" or "wine curve." It is not a formal scientific or technical term but rather a colloquial expression used to describe the visual trajectory of wine as it is swirled in a glass. When wine is gently rotated, it coats the sides of the glass and then slowly drips back down. The patterns and speed of these drips, often referred to as "legs" or "tears" in English, are what Vinoviivalla describes.

The formation of these wine lines is influenced by several factors, including the alcohol content, sugar levels, and glycerol present in the wine. Higher alcohol content and sugar tend to produce more pronounced and slower-moving lines. While some believe these lines are a direct indicator of a wine's quality or aging potential, this is largely a myth. The visual effect is primarily a consequence of the wine's physical properties and the evaporation of alcohol, which lowers surface tension and causes the liquid to flow back down the glass.

In practical terms, observing Vinoviivalla can offer a subtle clue about a wine's composition. For instance, a wine with very prominent and slow-moving lines might suggest a richer, possibly sweeter or higher-alcohol wine. However, it is not a definitive measure of taste or value. Wine tasters focus on aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel for a comprehensive assessment, rather than solely on the visual display of Vinoviivalla.