Wine connoisseurs, and even those who drink an occasional glass of wine, typically understand the basics of the winemaking process. However, you cannot fully understand wine without discussing the concept of terroir. This French term that simply means “a sense of place,” is a belief that the land and climate where the grape is grown plays a huge role in the distinct characteristics infused in the grape. 

Essentially, a grape embodies the terroir of a particular region. It's like saying that a grape grown in Connecticut, for example, tastes different than the exact same grape grown in California. 

Now that, my fellow oenophiles, is terroir. 

While the winemaking process is distinct to each individual vineyard, it generally follows the same process across the board. At Jonathan Edwards Winery, we welcome you to our wedding vineyard venue in Newport to learn about our winemaking process! For a more general understanding, review out the infographic below to learn about the life of a grape, then continue reading as we discuss the four traits of terroir:

Climate

Cooler climates can have more rain and generate wine with lower alcohol content and retain more acidity. On the other hand, grapes grown in warmer climates with less rain have a higher alcohol content because they have higher sugar levels. Humidity, wind flow, and daytime and nighttime temperatures can also lead to the distinctive characteristics of the grape.

Soil

Each vineyard has different soils, rock, and mineral deposits, and they each impact the grapes differently, depending on their region. The components in the soil can affect water drainage and heat retention in different ways, which ultimately affects the outcome of the grape. 

Terrain

Flora, like plants, trees, and microbes that live in and around the vineyard, can affect how a particular wine from a region tastes. This is due to their complex interactions in the soil. Geological features, such as valleys and mountains, also play a part in this. The altitude of the vineyard can determine the temperature of the area, therefore, influencing the flavor of the grapes.

Tradition

Vineyards that follow a particular winemaking tradition also contribute to a wine’s terroir. They may follow their own process with unique winemaking techniques. If you want to learn about our winemaking process, book a tour of our vineyard!

As a wine enthusiast, it’s important to understand terroir and how it affects the taste of wine. In doing so, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the many different flavors that come across your palette. If you’re interested in having a vineyard wedding in Newport, get in touch with us today to take a tour of our venue.