Oenophilia

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Oenophilia (pronounced /ˌɛnoʊˈfɪliə/), originally from Greek, is the love (philia) of wine (oinos). An oenophile (/ˈiːnoʊfaɪl/) is a lover of wine.

In the strictest sense, oenophilia describes a disciplined devotion to wine, accompanying strict traditions of consumption and appreciation. In a general sense however, oenophilia simply refers to the enjoyment of wine, often by laymen.

Oenophiles are also known as a wine aficionados, connoisseurs, or winos. They are people who appreciate or collect wine, particularly grape wines from certain regions, varietal types, or methods of manufacture. While most oenophiles are hobbyists, some may also be professionals like vintners, wine merchants, or one who tastes and grades wines for a living.

The oenophile stereotype is often used for comedic effect, a well-known example being the 2004 comedy Sideways.

[edit] See also

• Oenology
• Wine tasting
• Wine making
• Wino