Terroir and wine: What is terroir in wine?

When we dive into the fascinating world of wine, we encounter a special term that goes far beyond vineyards and wineries: the terroir. This French word literally translates as ‘soil’ or ‘land,’ and it is key to understanding the very essence of the wine, what gives it its unique and unmistakable character. But what exactly is terroir and why is it so important in winegrowing? Here at 15 Bodegas, we firmly believe that every wine is a story, a narrative that starts in the terroir. 
 
In this article, we’ll unravel the mysteries of this term, exploring how the combination of soil, climate, topography, and human tradition not only give life to the vines, but also define the personality of each wine. Join us to discover everything there is to know about wine terroirs and their influence on the different types of vineyards. 

What is a terroir in wine? 

This concept, although it is often associated with the earth, encompasses much more than this. The meaning of terroir covers a wide range of factors that influence the cultivation of the vines and, as a result, the characteristics of the wine. The Latin root of the word points to “earth.” However, this is an idea that encompasses aspects related to the growth, particularities, and quality of each vine, giving it a distinctive personality that reflects its place of origin and marks the Denomination of Origin of each wine and each cava​. 

The soil and its influence 

The soil is one of the most critical aspects of the terroir. Each type of soil—clay, sand, limestone, etc.—has its own unique chemical composition which directly impacts the different grape varieties. For example, clay soils tend to retain more moisture, which can influence the acidity and structure of wines. At 15 Bodegas, we understand the importance of these details and how they affect the final profile of our wines. We study and respect the composition of our soils, ensuring that each bottle is a loyal reflection of the terroir​​​. 
 
As you can see, this is a complex and fascinating concept, essential for understanding the diversity and wealth of the wine world. 

Components of the terroir 

Terroir and wines with personality go hand in hand. Let’s analyze some of the main aspects that make up the terroir and how they affect the final result in the bottle. 

Climate 

Climate is a fundamental pillar, and for good reason: it has a significant influence on the characteristics of each wine. Elements like latitude, altitude, temperature range, sun hours, precipitation, and relative humidity play a determining role in the vine’s behavior. It’s important to consider these factors when selecting the locations of the vineyards, seeking optimal climate conditions for each grape variety. For example, a warmer and drier climate promotes the maturation and concentration of the grapes, while a cooler and wetter climate results in grapes with greater acidity, reflected in white wines sensory profile. A good example of this type of wine is our Leiras Albariño with its grapefruit and apple aromas and its postnasal citric notes from the grape. 

Topography 

The topography of the place where the vineyards are located is another aspect that impacts our topic of interest. The altitude and slope of the land will affect the number of sun hours and the presence of wind, which, in turn, influences the growth and quality of the grapes. Vineyards located on steep slopes, for example, usually receive greater solar and wind exposure, which results in the production of high-quality vines which allow to create complex wines like reserve wines. What’s more, topography also plays an important role in water management. Vineyards located on sloping lands are less prone to water saturation and, as such, more likely to produce concentrated and mature grapes​. 
 
It’s clear that the interaction between the climate and topography is essential in defining a region’s terroir. These factors, in combination with the soil and cultural practices, contribute to the uniqueness of each wine. 

Innovation and tradition in the terroir 

In the world of wine, innovation and tradition intertwine in terroir management. In this context, an aspect worth considering is the choice of cultivation techniques. The tendency to grow “pié franco” or ungrafted vineyards, in other words, without using American rootstocks, is a clear example of how historic techniques are returning to preserve the identity and quality of the vines. These methods, which seek a greater harmony with nature and the terroir, have a direct impact on the typicality and quality of the wines​. A good example of all these technics are our author wines.

The human influence 

The human factor is equally essential in shaping the terroir for winegrowing. From pruning to harvesting, each decision made by winegrowers and enologists has a significant impact on the final characteristics of the wine. At 15 Bodegas, we understand that human interpretation and intervention are unavoidable components. Each choice, from the management of native vegetation to choosing the optimal harvest time, contributes to the uniqueness of our organic wines. This holistic approach allows us to produce wines that not only reflect their geographic origin, but also the philosophy and passion of those who work to produce each bottle​​​. 
 
The terroir, this unique mix of geographic, climate and human factors, is not just a concept, it is the essence that defines each bottle of wine. Throughout this journey, we have discovered how the soil, the climate, the topography and human influence come together to create the genuine identity of each wine. 

Each 15 Bodegas wine is a testimony to the terroir from which it hails, offering a narrative that goes far beyond the glass. We are committed to maintaining a balance between tradition and innovation, respecting the uniqueness of each terroir, and incorporating our special touch through carefully selected winemaking practices. 
 
We invite you to explore the diversity and wealth of our wines, each with its own story. Learn how the terroir manifests itself in our wines and join us in an enotourism experience to discover this magic up close. At 15 Bodegas, every sip is a journey, an opportunity to appreciate the complexity and beauty that the terroir brings to our wines. Explore, experiment, and enjoy the unique experience that each bottle in the 15 Bodegas online wine store has to offer you.