Are you influenced by terroir when you purchase a bottle of wine? I really like the idea of tasting at wineries in different areas and noticing the difference between the wines despite the same grape used in producing the wine. The concept of terroir includes many items that can affect grapes as they grow. Some of these include soil composition, climate, longitude, placement of the vineyard, and amount of water available. Even in the area of the Finger Lakes especially known for producing great Riesling wines, there is a difference between the wines. Riesling tends to have floral, mineral or fruity nuances. Riesling is a very versatile grape and reflects different characteristics depending on the soil in which it is grown.

At Félsina winery, in Tuscany a single lane road separates a vineyard. According to our guide, despite the fact that the same grapes are growing on each side, there is a noticeable difference in the wines produced from each part of the vineyard. Closer to home, Coyote’s Run Estate Winery in Niagara, Canada has two types of clay soil – red and black, in the vineyard. Using the same varietal grapes, different wines are produced from each area. It is interesting to taste and note the difference.

If you believe in the concept of terroir as I do, remember wine is also influenced by the winemaker’s wine style, once the grapes arrive at the winery. Where have you noticed terroir making a difference in wines?

Cheers!
Kathy