grappa: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Semi-formal to formal; often culinary, gastronomic, or travel contexts.
Quick answer
What does “grappa” mean?
A strong, clear Italian brandy distilled from the pomace (skins, pulp, seeds, and stems) left over from winemaking.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A strong, clear Italian brandy distilled from the pomace (skins, pulp, seeds, and stems) left over from winemaking.
The term can refer broadly to pomace brandy, but is strongly associated with Italy and its specific production traditions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is identically used in both varieties. Differences lie in the frequency of its use, as it is more common in areas with stronger Italian cultural influences or higher-end culinary scenes.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes authenticity, Italy, after-dinner drinks, and sometimes a strong, fiery taste. It can be seen as sophisticated or rustic depending on context.
Frequency
Low frequency in general English, slightly higher in the UK possibly due to broader European culinary exposure, but overall niche.
Grammar
How to Use “grappa” in a Sentence
[Subject: Person] + drank + [Object: grappa][Subject: Grappa] + is + distilled + from + [Object: pomace][Subject: Restaurant] + served + [Object: grappa] + after + [Adjunct: meal]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in the context of spirits import/export or hospitality.
Academic
Used in historical, culinary, or gastronomic studies.
Everyday
Used when discussing travel to Italy, fine dining, or spirits.
Technical
Used in viticulture, oenology, and distilling industries.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “grappa”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “grappa”
- Pronouncing it with a long 'a' (/ˈɡreɪpə/) like 'grape,'
- Using it as a generic term for any strong spirit.
- Capitalising it (Grappa) when not referring to the specific GI category.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both are distilled spirits, brandy is typically distilled from wine (fermented grape juice), whereas grappa is distilled from the solid pomace (skins, seeds, stems).
Traditionally, it is served as a digestivo (after-dinner drink) at room temperature in a small tulip-shaped glass. It is sipped neat.
Authentic 'Grappa' is a protected Geographical Indication (GI) of Italy. Similar pomace brandies are made elsewhere (e.g., France's 'Marc'), but cannot be labelled 'Grappa.'
Clear grappa is unaged. Brown or golden grappa has been aged in wooden casks, which adds colour and smoother, often vanilla or spicy, flavours.
A strong, clear Italian brandy distilled from the pomace (skins, pulp, seeds, and stems) left over from winemaking.
Grappa is usually semi-formal to formal; often culinary, gastronomic, or travel contexts. in register.
Grappa: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡræpə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡrɑːpə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of GRAPPA as the spirit made from what's left after making wine from GRAPes.
Conceptual Metaphor
GRAPPA IS FIRE (e.g., 'That grappa has quite a kick,' 'It warms the throat').
Practice
Quiz
What is grappa traditionally made from?