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You’ll often hear “wine people” refer to different wines as either “Old World” or “New World” . These terms were originally used to describe certain characteristics that come from traditions in winemaking. Obviously many of the traditions relate directly to the region where the wines originate. For example, Bordeaux would be considered an Old World wine while a similar blend from Napa is considered a New World wine.

However, the Old World-New World connotations go beyond region. Let’s take a deeper look at old world ones vs new world wines and the many differences between these two informal classifications.

Location

Location is the simplest designation between Old World and New World wines. Old World wines hail from Europe and the Middle East. More specifically, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Germany and so forth. Most of these countries have been involved in some form of viticulture for thousands of years.

New World wines are those wines from, well, everywhere else. Locations like North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa have a foot firmly planted in winemaking. Because of their more recent entry into wine production the wines from these locales are referred to as New World.

Because of similar global latitudes and growing the same grapes you would think the wines wouldn’t be much different. However, there’s more to how these vines grow than simply similar climates. Consider the unique differences in topography. The soil differences such as clay, limestone, volcanic soil, sand and the like contribute to the final product.

Microclimates and the steepness of the vineyard slopes, how the sun shines on the vineyards and for how long, humidity, wind, proximity to the sea and so many other variations that create the “terroir” all of into the final product-the wine.

Terroir differs from region to region to be sure but it can also differ from hillside to hillside, village to village, with the slightest variation changing the character even the littlest bit. Old World wines place a greater emphasis on the terroir than the varietal they share. You can count on an Old World wine’s label to announce the exact location of where the grapes were grown over even the varietal.

New World wines, on the other hand, may come from larger vineyards that encompass many different microclimates and varying balances in soil. The varietals that go into the final product may very well come from the same vineyard location but maintain slight differences in terroir. New World Wines labels often place the importance on the varietal over the vineyard or estate.

Regulations

Old World wines often carry a designation earned by adhering to very specific rules and regulations. The laws dictate wine production and are there to protect the integrity and authenticity of the wine. They guard against vintners producing an inferior wine that could effectively ruin the reputation of the wine.

Many of these regulations have been in effect for many years. They are rooted in agricultural traditions and practices which have been passed through generations. Some of the rules might seem a little antiquated but most wine lovers won’t argue once they taste the final product. These regulations include such factors as vine spacing, irrigation, harvesting and yield on the agricultural side and rules regarding fermentation, aging, alcohol content and forbidding any artificial additives on the winemaking side of production.

New World wines are produced under much more relaxed regulations. Typically there is very little involvement of a rule-making organization which leaves the winemaker free to exercise creativity and experiment with their product. New World winemakers are free to utilize technology and agricultural advancements like industrial irrigation systems.

It’s said that the New World Wines reflect each winemaker's personal efforts. Old World wines reflect traditions and practices of an entire wine producing region.

Taste

Considering the differences in terroir and the regulations (or lack thereof) governing the production practices of Old World wines vs New World wines you might wonder about the taste. Is there a standout difference between them and is one better than the other?

Well, yes there is a difference in taste. Old World wines are meant to be enjoyed with food and so place more of the focus on characteristics like structure and complexity of flavors in order to hold up to the accompanying food. They need to be palatable and complementary. Old World wines often are higher acidity and lower alcohol (ABV).

New World wines tend to be lower acidity, higher alcohol and enjoyable on their own. They are typically much bolder although they can be complementary to food pairings.

The flavor profiles, as you might deduce, differ in some ways. Old World wines are lighter bodied. They are earthy, more mineral forward. There’s a tart fruit note to Old World wines with less oak and a more delicate balance, flavor and structure than New World wines offer.

New World wines tend to be more fruit forward and oaky. They have a bolder, more pronounced structure with robust flavors that are ripe and recognizable.

Preference?

Now comes the fun part. In order to identify your preference you need to sample both Old World and New World wines for yourself. Do you like the more complex flavors of some of Napa’s reds? Or another New World wine like a white that’s buttery or citrusy crisp? Maybe you prefer the more delicate French cabernet-sauvignon?

Who says you have to choose? There are ones for every preference and every mood, occasion or meal. Try what you want and drink what you like!