The Geography of Wine

Also known as terroir. The soil, topography and climate all impact the flavor of the wine.

Old World vs New World

Old World refers to wine that is grown in Europe and the New World refers to wine that is grown everywhere else including the U.S., South America, Australia and New Zealand. Old world wines have strict guidelines on how they are grown and bottled. Generally speaking, old world wines have less alcohol (12-15% alcohol content), are more acidic and have a strong mineral flavor compared to new world wines. New world wines are fruitier and “Jammier”. They are also higher in alcohol content (15-18% alcohol content). Old world wines are like our grandparents, rooted in tradition but we love them. New world wines are the offspring: new, fresh and innovative.

Varietals- The Name of Wine

Wines are typically named after the type of grape, which is known as the varietal. Cabernet-Sauvignon uses the Cabernet-Sauvignon grape. The varietal is originally from France, but that type of grape is grown everywhere. Most new world wines are made from the grape varietals from the old world.

Specific countries have their own grape varietals that have been grown for hundreds of years. Often the type of wine a country produces pairs well with the cuisine. You don’t want to get a French wine when you order tapas. Instead you want a nice fiery Rioja to eat with your Jamón Iberico and Papas Bravas!

In the New World, grape varietals from the Old World are grown but have a different flavor due to the climate. Countries are often famous for their wines using borrowed grapes.