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Wine glossary
I
Ice Wine
A type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine (or icewine; German: Eiswein).
IGP
See Indication Géographique Protégée.
IGT
See Indicazione Geografica Tipica.
Imperial
A 6 liter wine bottle. Equal to 8 standard bottles (aka Methuselah).
Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP)
This is the European Union’s new designation, meant to replace the old Vin de Pays for recognition across the member states. It was officially adopted in January 2016.
Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT)
Italian quality classification meaning «wine typical of a region.» Indicazione Geografica Tipica is one level above the base category, Vino da Tavola. It can also be used by super Tuscans.
Inoculation
The process in which a winemaker introduces yeast to the must to kick-start fermentation.
Intensity
Intensity in wine is a good thing that takes place when ample flavor keeps the taster focused.
Irrigation
Adding water to vines. This is not legal in most areas of Europe for vines that are more than 3 years of age.
Isinglass
A protein derived from the bladders of sturgeon and other fish and used in the fining process. The protein binds with excess tannins, pulling them from overly harsh wines.