The soil of the vineyard is much more than the sustenance of the vines; it is a universe full of secrets that defines the unique character of each wine. Here are some fascinating facts about terroir, a term that encompasses soil, climate and human practices.
The soil “speaks” through the wine
The soil is a kind of silent narrator that transmits its essence to the grapes. For example, calcareous soils tend to give wines with a marked minerality and freshness, while volcanic soils produce wines with smoky and deep notes. It is as if the vine translates its environment into each glass.
Rock or sand?
Did you know that vine roots can penetrate several meters in search of water and nutrients? In poor soils, such as gravel or sandy soils, vines must work harder, resulting in more concentrated grapes and, therefore, more intense wines. On the other hand, clay soils retain more water, favoring balanced growth.
Its influence on the acidity and body of the wine
Soil composition affects the ripening of grapes. Soils such as limestone tend to maintain a lively acidity in the wine, ideal for vibrant, fresh whites. On the other hand, soils such as clay soils can generate wines with more body and ripe tannins.
Microorganisms, the invisible inhabitants
Soil is alive. Microorganisms, fungi and bacteria play a crucial role in the health of the vines and the flavor of the wine. They even influence the way vines absorb nutrients and develop aromatic compounds.
The terroir is not only the base that supports the vine; the climate plays a key role. Rainfall, wind, sun and temperature affect the way the soil interacts with the plants. This is why the same type of soil can produce completely different wines in regions with different climates.
The influence of climate
The terroir of the wine regions of La Rioja, Rueda and La Mancha offers a unique richness and diversity that is reflected in their wines. Here I explain the most outstanding characteristics of each one:
RiojaElegance and diversity of soils
The Rioja Qualified Designation of Origin is one of the most prestigious in Spain, and its terroir is a blend of soils, climates and altitudes that create wines of great quality and complexity.
- Soils: Rioja is divided into three subzones with unique soil characteristics:
- Rioja Alta: clay-limestone and alluvial soils that provide freshness and longevity to the wines.
- Rioja Alavesa: predominantly calcareous soils, ideal for elegant wines with good acidity.
- Eastern Rioja: more clayey soils rich in iron, which contribute to wines with greater structure and maturity.
- Climate: it is a transition region between the Atlantic and Mediterranean climates, which ensures a balance between freshness and concentration in the grapes.
Ruedathe cradle of Verdejo wines
The Rueda Denomination of Origin, in the region of Castilla y León, is known mainly for its white wines made from the Verdejo grape. The Rueda terroir is ideal for this fresh and aromatic style.
- Soils: predominantly stony and sandy soils, with good drainage and high calcium and magnesium content. There are also areas with clay soils, which provide structure to the wines.
- Climate: continental, with cold winters and hot summers, which favors slow and concentrated ripening. The marked difference in temperature between day and night preserves acidity and fresh aromas in the grapes.
Castilla La ManchaA sea of vineyards
Castilla La Mancha, the largest wine region in Spain and one of the largest in the world, has unique characteristics that make it special.
- Soils: its soils are clayey, chalky and sandy. These soils are poor in organic matter, which forces the vines to develop deep roots.
- Climate: extreme continental, with very hot summers and cold winters. Low rainfall and intense summers contribute to lower production per plant, which concentrates the character of the grapes.
The soil is an invisible treasure that winemakers and winegrowers take advantage of to create wines with their own identity. In each sip of wine, we find the traces of the soil, the work of the winemaker and the whim of nature.
What other curiosities of the terroir would you like to explore? Share your ideas in the comments!
