Wine Terroirs

The legendary Champagne is celebrated worldwide and epitomises French winemaking excellence. Among the high-end offerings geared to quality, brands and winegrowers have broadened their standard range to include unique labels that showcase both terroir and the art of winegrowing.

In France’s Bordeaux wine region, a sea-change is occurring. Faced with an unprecedented crisis worsened by Covid-19 and overproduction, the winegrowers of Bordeaux are navigating through choppy waters. However, financial difficulties and the need for innovation are galvanising both brands and chateaux into action in a bid to reshape the future of the wine market.

Forty-three certified areas are entitled to use the quality statement Rive in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco region. This entitlement comes with specific restrictions, such as harvesting by hand and a cap on yields. We take a closer look at what the designation, which refers to the steep vineyard sites, implies for Prosecco wines.

A treasure hidden by its neighbouring appellation, Lalande-de-Pomerol shows stunning potential and a unique rendition of Merlot. Despite its proximity to the illustrious Pomerol appellation, it is often sidelined on Bordeaux’s wine scene. This does not stop the winegrowers who put their heart and soul into growing vines here, however, from crafting wines that display undeniable quality. We spoke to some of them to find out more.

It is sometimes tempting to think that Burgundy is all about its revered giants, and nothing else. Its Chambertins, Montrachets and Cortons, all those ruinously expensive labels that are not only reserved for an elite audience, but also totally impossible to lay your hands on. Or at best, its Meursault and Gevrey Chambertin Premiers Crus, that are barely more affordable. But no, the ‘Village’ appellation level provides the perfect solution for those who want to drink very good wines, without breaking the bank. And if you’re prepared to spend some time searching – they are only produced on a boutique scale – some of them even have extremely affordable price tags. We dive deep into some classic offerings for enlightened enthusiasts, and a genuine treasure trove for the geeky browsers.

The Soave vineyard hills were recently included among the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems sites and are one of the main production areas for Italian white wine. Home to the appellation’s signature grape Garganega, along with Trebbiano di Soave, the region is unique in terms of tradition and biodiversity. We drill down on its specifics.