WHAT IS A WINE REGION?

Many people unfortunately often use “wine region” loosely, assuming it just means anywhere that grows grapes. In the travel and wine industry, it is actually a specific idea. Often with legal borders and documentation. And exploring one of these regions can be a legendary event.

TERROIR SHAPES A REGION’S IDENTITY

A wine region is a defined area. In fact, climate, soil, and terrain combine to create what’s known as terroir.. That combination gives wines from a place a recognizable character. Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and Tuscany earn the label through soil, elevation, and weather that produce a repeatable identity. This is why they are strong wine regions most people consider and know more than other regions.

MANY REGIONS ARE ALSO LEGALLY DEFINED

Did you know you cannot call wine Champagne unless it comes from that precise region in France? As a result, producers call most wines sparkling wine instead. Beyond Champagne, there are other legal systems in place as well. Appellation systems like France’s AOC, Italy’s DOC and DOCG, and the U.S. AVA designation set legal boundaries. For example, they often regulate which grapes, yields, and methods winemakers can use inside that boundary. That is why producers can only label a sparkling wine Champagne when it comes from the actual Champagne region of France.

VISITING A REGION ADDS REAL CONTEXT

For anyone who loves wine, this is a must do trip. For instance, visiting the region where winemakers craft your favorite wine will be eye-opening. You can taste how a Cabernet differs from one side of a valley to the next. You can meet winemakers who explain why their soil produces a different wine than their neighbor’s. The different is truly astounding.

The Answer to the Question:

The answer is that a wine region is a defined geographic area, often legally protected, where a specific combination of climate, soil, and terrain gives the grapes grown there a distinct and consistent character. We hope you enjoy the benefits of travel on your next trip and the many more to come!

Additional Resources:

There are plenty of regions of this world, which we will explore further. Europe has many, with a few key cities to visit as well. Planning a broader Europe itinerary? Read “Why Is Rome Called The Eternal City” . Ready to plan your trip? Reach out to CARTE ATLAS and I hope we get the chance to say “Cheers!” to your wine voyage.