Old World vs. New World Wines


Tonight, we’re having a Wine Dinner at Prime featuring wines from around the globe, rather than a specific producer. Therefore, I feel it’s appropriate to explore and explain the topic of the Dinner: “Old World vs. New World” as it pertains to wine. 

In the world of wine, two terms often come up: "old world" and "new world." But what do they mean, and how do they affect the wine in your glass?
Imagine the "old world" as a classic novel—full of tradition, history, and a deep connection to the land. Old world wines, predominantly from Europe, like France, Italy, and Spain, are often described as having lighter bodies, higher acidity, and more subtle fruit flavors with earthy undertones. These wines reflect centuries-old winemaking traditions and the concept of "terroir," which refers to the unique characteristics the soil, climate, and geography impart on the grapes. 

On the other hand, "new world" wines are like a modern-day blockbuster—bold, expressive, and full of vibrant flavors. New world wine regions, such as the USA, Australia, and South America, embraced winemaking techniques from Europe but added their own flair. These wines tend to be fuller-bodied, with lower acidity, and showcase ripe, intense fruit flavors.

It’s amazing how the same grape can taste so different when grown in different places.

The distinction between old world and new world wines isn't just about taste; it's also about history and culture. Old world regions have been making wine for centuries, often defining the standards for winemaking around the world. In contrast, new world regions are relative newcomers, but they've quickly made a name for themselves by pushing boundaries and experimenting with new styles and grape varieties.

To make it even more simplistic, “old world” wines are typically from countries that originally, back in the day, had kings and queens, while “new world” wines come from countries that produced it after that era. 

Cheers!
Felix

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