You’ve probably seen words like glou-glou and chillable floating around wine conversations lately—but what do they actually mean? And why are they everywhere on natural wine labels and Instagram captions?
This is your no-fuss summer guide to the fun, slightly cheeky language of natural wine. Whether you’re just starting out or already sipping orange wine on your rooftop, these terms will help you understand (and order) with a little more confidence—and a lot more style.
🧊 Chillable
A red wine that loves the fridge. Slightly chilled reds bring out freshness and juicy fruit, making them perfect for warm evenings, Netflix nights, or winding down after work. Summer MVP. Look for wines with light body, low tannins, and juicy fruit.
🌫️ Cloudy
Unfiltered and unfined wines are proudly cloudy. It’s not a flaw—it’s a flex. The haze is a natural byproduct of skipping industrial processes, and often means more flavour and texture. Don’t judge by appearance—cloudy means character.
😛 Funky
Funky wines are a little wild—sometimes yeasty, sometimes earthy, sometimes just surprising. Not for everyone, but deeply lovable once you get it. Like a good indie band or a slightly weird playlist that grows on you.
🍷 Glou-glou
A French onomatopoeia for “glug-glug.” Wines that are light, juicy, and made for drinking—not swirling. Pop it open, pour generously, repeat. Often low in alcohol and dangerously easy to finish in one sitting.
🍊 Skin-Contact
When white grapes are treated like reds—fermented with their skins—it creates orange wine. Expect more grip, structure, and flavour. Bold but approachable. These wines love texture and spice.
🍑 Crunchy
Used to describe wines with high acidity and a snappy, refreshing finish. It’s not literal—but imagine biting into a chilled green apple or plum. That’s the vibe. Often found in lighter reds and sharp whites.
🌿 Zippy
A term often used for wines with energetic acidity and a bright, mouth-watering quality. Think lemon zest, lime peel, and a fast finish. Perfect for aperitivo hour.
🧂 Salty
Yes—some wines actually taste salty. It’s a mineral quality often found in coastal or volcanic wines. Adds freshness, tension, and serious food pairing magic.
So next time you see “cloudy & chillable with a funky edge”… you’ll know it’s a yes 😉
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