Cedar describes a woody aroma reminiscent of cedarwood, pencil shavings or a freshly sharpened pencil. It is a familiar descriptor in Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style red wines, particularly those matured in oak and developed in bottle. The note can contribute complexity when integrated with fruit and other aromas.
Cedar-like character may appear with tobacco, graphite, spice and dark-fruit notes. It is often associated with oak maturation and the development of structured red wines, but the aroma is not exclusive to one grape or region.
Example: a mature Pauillac may show cedar and pencil-shaving aromas alongside cassis and savoury complexity.
Related terms: cigar box suggests a combination of cedar and tobacco-like notes; oaky refers more broadly to aromas and flavours associated with oak.
This term is one of hundreds covered in depth across OCS courses, learning paths, and 1-on-1 coaching with Chef Eric.
