The Language of Oenological Critique in Spanish: Slang, Specialized Language or Sociolect?

Abstract

The difference between jargon, slang and specialized language often becomes blurred in the case of professional discourse. The reason is to be found in the very nature of this type of discourse, as well as in the socio-professional characteristics of its users. After carefully analyzing a significant body of oenological criticism written in Spanish by experts and wine-tasting enthusiasts, this article concludes that professional language may be regarded as a type of social dialect that functions as a badge of identity among its users. The use of such a social dialect thus aims to facilitate communication and strengthen bonds among experts and wine-tasting aficionados, while excluding those who are not in the know.