Spice

Clove

Definition

Baking spice from oak or variety — part of the ‘sweet spice’ cluster.

Why this matters in wine

Shows in barrel-aged reds and some Chardonnays.

Position inside its category

Clove

Parent category

Spice — Spice and aromatic warmth — pepper, clove, cinnamon, and exotic notes from grape, oak, or fermentation.

Sibling descriptors

More in Spice

Appears in

Common food pairings

Frequently confused with

FAQ

What does clove mean in wine?
Baking spice from oak or variety — part of the ‘sweet spice’ cluster.
Why does clove matter for pairing?
Shows in barrel-aged reds and some Chardonnays.
What is clove often confused with?
Tasters often overlap clove with cinnamon, nutmeg. Each descriptor has a distinct place in the wine vocabulary.

See also