Cellared Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cellared

[ˈsɛləd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

wine storage

Cellared refers to the act of storing wine or other beverages in a wine cellar or similar environment, where conditions are optimal for aging and preserving quality. This process often involves keeping the wine in a controlled environment with specific temperature and humidity levels to enhance its flavor over time. Proper cellaring can greatly affect the taste and aroma, allowing the wine to develop complexity as it ages. The term can also apply to the overall management of a wine collection, focusing on the selection and maintenance of bottles.

Synonyms

age, preserve, store.

Examples of usage

  • We cellared the vintage wine to let it mature.
  • He has a collection of wines that he cellared for years.
  • They advise to cellar fine wines for better flavor.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Many gourmet foods, like cheese and pickles, can also be cellared to enhance their flavors over time.
  • The process of cellaring can vary widely depending on what is stored, such as temperature and humidity levels.
  • Storing fruits and vegetables in a cellar can slow ripening and prolong freshness.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, cellared wine is a tradition, often passed down through generations.
  • Wine cellars have become cultural symbols of sophistication and appreciation for craftsmanship in many societies.
  • Special cellar designs can be found in historic wineries, showcasing a blend of art and function.

Science

  • Science studies show that wine can change chemically and develop new flavors while aging in a cellar.
  • Microorganisms in the cellar environment can influence how certain foods age, leading to unique textures and tastes.
  • Temperature, humidity, and light are critical factors in maintaining the quality of cellared items.

Psychological Impact

  • The act of cellaring can be seen as a form of patience, as good things often take time to develop.
  • People often feel a sense of anticipation when waiting for a cellared item to be ready for enjoyment.
  • Cellaring can have social implications, as sharing well-aged items often strengthens bonds between individuals.

Origin of 'cellared'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'cellar,' which has roots in the Latin word 'cella,' meaning a small room or storage.
  • Historically, wine was often kept in cellars to protect it from heat and light, which can spoil it.
  • The term 'cellaring' specifically refers to the practice of aging wine to improve its taste.

The term 'cellar' derives from the Middle English word 'celer', meaning a room for storage, which originates from the Latin word 'cellarium', a storeroom or granary. As wine became a valued and collected item, specialized storage solutions in the form of cellars became essential. The practice of cellaring wine dates back to ancient civilizations, where the cool, dark conditions of underground cellars were utilized to keep the beverage at a stable temperature. Over centuries, as wine production and consumption evolved, the word 'cellared' emerged, specifically referring to the storage of wine under ideal conditions for aging. Today, it encompasses not only the physical act of storing wine but also the broader aspect of wine collection and management.