What is terroir and how does it affect wine?

The terroir refers to the expression of a whole set of factors, such as the soil, topographical characteristics, microclimate and even in some cases the traditions of the region’s viticulture, all of which are reflected in a wine.

Wineries inspired by the concept of terroir are those that seek to reduce their intervention to a minimum in order to respect these nuances that will give the wine its marked and particular identity. In this way, they interpret that a good wine is one that can transport you to the region where it was made.

4 Aspects of the Terroir

1. Weather

The climate of each wine region has a very important impact on the grapes. While warmer climates generate higher sugar levels, resulting in wines with higher alcohol content, grapes grown in cold climates are usually the opposite, presenting lower sugar levels but greater retention of acidity.

2. Soil

The type of soil where the grapes are grown, which may have a more or less rocky or sandy surface, with more or less minerals, will also greatly affect the taste of the wine.

3. Terrain

The geographical and geological characteristics of the vineyard, such as altitude, being surrounded by mountains, or being located in valleys, as well as the flora and the proximity or distance of the water will give the wine finished characteristics.

4. Tradition

In certain regions, traditional technical practices for the cultivation of vineyards and the production of wines are used, which are largely based on the climate, soil and terrain of the region.

 

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