Common Wine Abbreviations Explained: A Beginner’s Guide

Introduction

Wine lovers often find themselves confused by the various abbreviations printed on wine labels. Have you ever stared at a familiar-looking acronym, feeling frustrated because you just couldn't recall what it meant? If so, you're not alone. In this article, we'll break down seven categories of common wine abbreviations. Once you understand these English shorthand terms, you can officially say goodbye to being a wine novice.

1. Grape Variety Abbreviations

①GSM

GSM stands for Grenache–Syrah–Mourvèdre, a classic red blend originating in the Southern Rhône Valley of France. Because it is the hallmark style of the region, it is sometimes referred to as the Southern Rhône Blend.

②GT

In Alsace, France, locals often use GT to refer to Gewurztraminer.

③PX

PX is the abbreviation for Pedro Ximénez (also spelled Pedro Ximenez), a grape variety used to produce certain styles of Sherry. Wines made from this grape are also labeled PX, representing a specific rich, sweet Sherry style.

2. Wine Abbreviations

①MLF

MLF stands for Malolactic Fermentation, an important stage in winemaking. It is the process in which malic acid is converted into softer lactic acid, reducing the sharp acidity that may remain after primary (alcoholic) fermentation. Not all wines undergo MLF, but for those that do, it significantly influences texture and balance.

②SV

SV stands for Single Vineyard, referring to wines made exclusively from grapes sourced from a single designated vineyard.

③LBV

LBV stands for Late Bottled Vintage, referring to Port wine that is bottled after aging for 4–6 years following harvest.

④NV

NV is the abbreviation for Non-Vintage, indicating that the wine was produced by blending wines from multiple years rather than from a single vintage. This designation is most commonly seen on Champagne and other sparkling wines.

⑤ABBBC

ABBBC represents five of Italy's most iconic wines:

• Amarone: A dry red wine made from partially dried grapes, known for its concentrated flavors and impressive aging potential. It is the most prestigious wine from the Valpolicella region.
• Barolo: Made exclusively from Nebbiolo grapes in Piedmont, Barolo is Italy's first DOCG wine and proudly known as the "King of Wines, Wine of Kings."
• Barbaresco: Once considered the softer alternative to Barolo, Barbaresco is now regarded as a benchmark expression of Nebbiolo and one of Piedmont's finest wines.
• Brunello di Montalcino: Produced in the hills surrounding Montalcino in Tuscany, Brunello is made from 100% Sangiovese and is often called the "Crown Jewel of Tuscany."
• Chianti Classico DOCG: Made primarily from Sangiovese (at least 80%), Chianti Classico is traditionally aged further in oak barrels to develop complexity.

⑥VDN

VDN refers to Vins Doux Naturels, the naturally sweet fortified wines from France's Languedoc-Roussillon region. This long-celebrated style embodies the warmth and richness of southern France.

⑦VT

VT stands for Vendange Tardive, meaning "late harvest." It refers to Alsace wines made from very ripe grapes that develop rich sweetness and concentration.

⑧ABV

ABV stands for Alcohol by Volume, a required indication of the wine's alcohol content displayed on every wine label.

To preserve optimal flavour expression—particularly for temperature-sensitive wines—consider employing a dedicated wine fridge to maintain a stable storage environment.

3. Classification Systems for Wine and Spirits

①QbA and QmP

In Germany’s wine classification system, quality wines fall into two main categories:

• Qualitätswein bestimmter Anbaugebiete (QbA) - “Quality Wine from a Specific Region”
• Qualitätswein mit Prädikat (QmP) - “Quality Wine with Special Attributes,” representing a higher-level category of superior wines.

②BA and TBA

Based on the sugar level of the grapes at harvest, Germany further divides its Prädikat (high-quality) wines into:

Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese (BA), Eiswein, and Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA).

• BA (Beerenauslese) is a rich, sweet wine similar in concept to late-harvest styles (VT), typically priced at a premium.
• TBA (Trockenbeerenauslese) is made from individually selected, botrytis-affected grapes that have shriveled on the vine, producing one of the sweetest and most concentrated dessert wines in the world.

③VS, VSOP, and XO

These abbreviations are used in the quality classification system for Cognac (and other brandies):

• VS (Very Special) – The youngest component in the blend must be aged at least 2 years in oak. This is one of the entry-level grades of Cognac.

• VSOP (Very Special Old Pale) – Requires the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend to be aged at least 4 years.
• XO (Extra Old) – Traditionally required a minimum aging of 6 years, though many Cognac producers advocate raising this requirement, as 6 years is no longer sufficient to set XO apart from lower categories. In practice, many XO Cognacs far exceed the minimum aging requirement.

FAQ

1.What do common wine abbreviations like GSM, PX, and VT mean?

GSM refers to the Grenache–Syrah–Mourvèdre blend, PX stands for Pedro Ximénez (a Sherry grape and wine style), and VT means Vendange Tardive, a late-harvest wine from Alsace.

2.How are German Prädikat wines classified (BA, TBA, etc.)?

German Prädikat wines are classified by grape ripeness at harvest: Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese (BA), Eiswein, and Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA).

3.What do VS, VSOP, and XO mean in Cognac?

VS requires a minimum of 2 years aging, VSOP at least 4 years, and XO traditionally at least 6 years (though many XO Cognacs exceed this).

4.What does ABV mean on a wine label?

ABV stands for Alcohol by Volume, indicating the percentage of alcohol in the wine.