Terroir

Terroir is a French term used to describe the unique characteristics of a specific place that give a wine its distinct flavor and aroma. Terroir is influenced by a variety of factors, including the climate, soil, and geography of the region where the grapes are grown.

Terroir is a complex concept and is often used to explain the differences between wines from different regions. For example, wines from the Bordeaux region of France are known for their rich, full-bodied flavors and aromas of cassis and tobacco, while wines from the Burgundy region are known for their delicate, elegant flavors and aromas of red berries and mushrooms.

Terroir is also influenced by the grape variety that is used to make the wine. Different grape varieties have different flavor profiles, and will express the characteristics of the terroir in different ways. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the Napa Valley will have a different flavor profile than Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the Bordeaux region of France.

Overall, terroir is a key factor in the character and quality of wine, and is an important concept to understand when learning about wine. The unique characteristics of a specific place give each wine its distinct flavor and aroma, and help to make the world of wine so fascinating and complex.

Article Written by: Austin Texas Wine Society

What is Acidity?

Acidity is one of the most important characteristics of wine and plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors and overall structure of the wine. Acidity gives a wine its crisp, refreshing quality, and helps to preserve it over time.

Acidity in wine comes primarily from two sources: the grapes themselves, and the winemaking process. Grapes naturally contain tartaric acid, which gives a wine its crispness and freshness. During the winemaking process, other acids can be introduced, such as malic and lactic acid.

The level of acidity in wine is measured using the pH scale, with a lower pH indicating a higher level of acidity. Most wines fall within a pH range of 2.8 to 4.0, with a pH of 3.0 to 3.4 being desirable for white wines, and a pH of 3.3 to 3.6 desirable for red wines

High-acid wines are often described as "crisp" or "tangy," and are often associated with refreshing white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling. These wines are often enjoyed as aperitifs, or as a complement to the light, flavorful dishes.

On the other hand, low-acid wines are often described as "smooth" or "round," and are often associated with rich, full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. These wines are often enjoyed with richer, heavier dishes.

In addition to balancing the flavors and structure of the wine, acidity also plays a key role in the aging potential of the wine. Wines with higher acidity tend to have longer aging potential, as the acid helps to preserve the wine over time.

In conclusion, acidity is a fundamental characteristic of wine and plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors and overall structure of the wine. Whether you prefer crisp, high-acid wines or smooth, low-acid wines, understanding acidity is key to appreciating and enjoying wine.

Article Written by: Austin Texas Wine Society

Old World vs. New World Wines

Old World and New World wines are terms used to describe a wine's origin. Old World wines are produced in the traditional wine-growing regions of Europe, such as France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Hungary, Croatia, and England. New World wines are wines that are produced outside of Europe, in regions such as Australia, South Africa, the United States, New Zealand, and China

These traits are common, although they are not always the case. You can find wines from the Old World are typically less heavy, lower in alcohol, higher in acidity, and less fruity in flavor, favoring a more mineral quality instead. The wines of the New World are typically more robust in texture, higher in alcohol content, lower in acidity, and more intense in fruit flavors.

Old World wines tend to be made using traditional methods and techniques, often made from grape varieties native to the region. They are often made using minimal intervention, allowing the terroir (the natural environment in which the grapes are grown) to shine through in the wine. Old World wines are known for their subtlety and complexity and often have a sense of place and history.

On the other hand, New World wines are often made using modern techniques and technology. They are often made from grape varieties introduced to the region from Europe, and they are known for their bold, fruit-forward flavors. New World wines are often made approachable and easy to drink and are often made in a more consistent style from year to year.

While Old World and New World wines can be very different in style and character, both can produce high-quality wines worth exploring and enjoying.

Article Written by: Austin Texas Wine Society