Wine Making Regions explores the pivotal role of terroir — the unique interplay of soil, climate, and topography — in shaping the distinctive characteristics of wines around the world. It examines how terroir influences viticulture and wine production, from renowned European regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux to the emerging wine territories of Napa Valley and Australia. The book reveals how this intricate combination dictates the flavor profiles of regional wines, demonstrating why a Chardonnay from one region differs significantly from another, even with similar winemaking techniques.
The book is structured in three parts, beginning with an introduction to the concept of terroir and its components. It continues with a tour of key wine regions, analyzing how their specific terroir influences dominant wine styles, and concludes by synthesizing the findings and discussing challenges like climate change. By integrating geological surveys, historical records, and insights from winemakers, Wine Making Regions provides a comprehensive understanding of how wine, place, and culture are intrinsically linked.