Terroir—towards a new perspective

Abstract

Terroir is the idea that the geographical area in which grapes are grown-its climate, geography, soil structure and mineral composition, vine adaptations, and so on-is manifest in the physical composition of wine. This paper presents a new perspective on the concept of terroir. It does so by reviewing traditional understandings of the idea, and a recent interpretation by Warren Moran, which is elaborated upon in a case study of the Coonawarra wine region. Key themes characterising the growth of the Australian wine industry are examined to identify the primary influences on how the concept is perceived in Australia today. A balance is sought between the diverse ideas of terroir and a more flexible interpretation of the concept.

Land Suitability of the Different Cultivars in the South Tyrol Wine Region (Italy)

“…The zoning of a wine-growing region involves its subdivision into small areas within which the natural features of the environment define a homogeneous and characteristic ecosystem, distinguishable from the adjacent ones. Zoning is a complex process that takes its cue from the concept of "terroir" [1] [2] [3] [4] [5], and consists of an integrated and interdisciplinary study, aimed at dividing the territory according to its suitability for a specific crop [6]. To do this, it is necessary to read and precisely catalog all those environmental elements that can affect the vegetative, productive and qualitative expression of cultivation.…”