finish
The final flavor and texture impression that remains on the palate after a wine is swallowed. The finish is part of a wine’s overall balance. A distinctive, lingering (or long) finish is the ideal. A wine with a weak or nonexistent finish is considered lacking.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.