What is Terroir?

Chances are you’ve encountered the term “terroir,” particularly in discussions about French wines. But what exactly does terroir entail? As hard as it is to properly translate with an English word, in this protip, we’ll tell you all about it. 

Terroir encompasses the intricate tapestry of geography, geology, and climate specific to a vineyard area. It encompasses factors like soil composition, topography, local weather nuances, as well as human influences such as traditional viticultural practices and regional winemaking techniques. 

The interplay of these elements gives rise to a wine’s distinctive flavor profile, aroma, and texture, setting apart wines from diverse regions even if they stem from the same grape variety. 

For instance, a Pinot Noir from Burgundy will unveil a different essence compared to one from the Loire Valley, owing to their unique terroirs. Interestingly, variations in terroir can even be discerned within the same region, village, or estate. 

In essence, terroir shapes a wine’s identity and attributes based on the environmental peculiarities that impact grape cultivation and wine production. 

Here are the three primary factors that influence terroir: 

People and Craftsmanship
This encompasses traditions and winemaking practices such as biodynamics, aging techniques, and maceration methods (think oak barrels, steel or concrete vats, amphorae). These techniques often mirror the cultural ethos of a specific region. For instance, Château des Aspras is renowned for crafting only organic wines, a hallmark of Correns’ terroir, France’s inaugural entirely organic village.

Climate
Climate denotes the enduring patterns of temperature, humidity, and precipitation in a given region, shaping the grape varieties that thrive there. In France, distinctions exist between dry, warm Mediterranean climates and cooler, more humid Oceanic or Continental climates. For example, Bordeaux Sauvignon Blancs present distinct characteristics from Loire Valley counterparts. 

Fun Fact: Remember, weather pertains to short-term atmospheric conditions that can swiftly impact a vineyard, like unexpected frosts, heatwaves, or storms, potentially influencing a vintage’s yield and quality. 

Soil
Diverse soil compositions—limestone, clay, gravel, volcanic—impart unique attributes to grapes. Limestone soils, for instance, elevate acidity, while clay enhances richness and body. Soil influences water drainage, heat retention, and nutrient availability, crucial for vine health and grape maturation. 

Check out the following terroir-driven wines:

Understanding terroir helps wine lovers develop a deeper appreciation  for the subtle nuances that define each bottle, connecting them to the land and culture from which the wine originates. 

Fun Fact: Terroir isn’t exclusive to France! In Hong Kong and China, the phrase 天地人 (pronounced: tin-dei-yan) embodies the concept, translating to sky, earth, and people. 

Learn about Saint-Emilion terroir, with Véronique Corporandy from Château Larmande and Château Soutard:

Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years or older to visit this site.