Old World

After categorizing wine as white and red, the world of wine can then be categorized in two large categories; old world and new world countries. Old World countries (or those in Europe), represent the origins of grape growing and winemaking. They represent the template that New World countries have used to determining viticulture practices, such as what grape varieties grow best in certain soils and climates. They have also provided insight into what winemaking techniques work best in making each grape variety.

What are the main Old World wine producing countries? France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria, Greece. These countries have been growing grapes and making wine for several thousand years.

There are some very important general characteristic that Old World wines possess that will help you identify and understand the styles of wines from there.

• Often possess earthy aroma and flavors with less ripe or primary fruit aromas and smells

• More conservative use of new oak barrels for aging wines. Tend to use larger oak casks that impart a more neutral effect

• Wines tend to be a little lower in alcohol % (with global warming becoming more of a factor, this has not been as evident as it has in years prior)

• More ageworthy due to greater balance, acidity and age of vines

Wine labeling is a bit different in Old World countries. While New World countries label by grape variety, Old World countries mainly label by region. Each region within the Old World countries has a grape variety of several grape varieties that they can legally grow. So, if you know which grape varieties they are, you will know what you are drinking. Here are some common examples:

Region Grape Variety/Varieties

Burgundy Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Beaujolais Gamay

Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc

Rioja Tempranillo

Tuscany Sangiovese

Barolo Nebbiolo

Left Bank Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon (mainly), Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec

Right Bank Bordeaux Merlot (mainly), Cabernet Franc

Hermitage Syrah