Old World vs. New World Wines: What's the Difference and Which One Should You Choose?

If you are a wine lover, you may have heard of the terms "Old World" and "New World" when it comes to wine. But what do these terms actually mean, and how do they affect the taste of the wine? In this blog, we explore the differences between Old and New World wines and help you understand which wine you prefer. 

Wine is a drink that has been consumed for centuries, but the production and culture surrounding it have evolved over time. One of the ways wine is categorized is whether it comes from the Old or New World. These terms refer to the traditional wine producing areas in Europe and the newer wine producing areas in America, Australia and South Africa. But what makes these two categories different, and how do they affect the taste of the wine? 

The history of wines from the old world 

Old World wines are wines that come from traditional wine-producing regions of Europe such as France , Italy andSpain . These regions have been producing wine for centuries and their techniques and traditions have been passed down from generation to generation. Old world wines are often associated with a sense of history and tradition, and their taste reflects this. They are usually more subtle and nuanced in taste, with a greater emphasis on terroir, terroir being the influence of the land, climate and soil on the taste of the wine. 

The Emergence of New World Wines 

New World wines are wines from the newer wine producing areas of America, Australia and South Africa . These regions have started producing wine in recent centuries and have developed their own unique styles and techniques. Wines from the New World tend to be bolder and fruitier in taste. 

Climate and terroir 

One of the main differences between Old and New World wines is the influence of climate and terroir. Old World wines are often made in cooler, more temperate climates, and the influence of the land and soil on the wine's flavor is emphasized. New World wines, on the other hand, are often made in warmer climates and are more influenced by the viticultural techniques used. 

Grape varieties 

Another difference between Old World and New World wines is the grape variety used. Old World wines usually use traditional grape varieties that have been grown in the region for centuries, such as the Cabernet Sauvignon in Bordeaux or Sangiovese in Tuscany. New World wines, on the other hand, often use a wider variety of grape varieties, including some not traditionally grown in the region. This allows more experimentation and creativity in winemaking. 

Viticulture techniques 

The vinification techniques also differ between Old World and New World wines. Old World winemaking emphasizes traditional techniques, such as aging in oak barrels or using natural yeasts. New World winemaking, on the other hand, often uses more modern techniques, such as using stainless steel tanks for fermentation or adding aromas to the wine. 

Which one should you choose? 

When choosing between Old World and New World wines, it really comes down to personal preference. If you like a wine with a more subtle and nuanced flavor profile, and appreciate the sense of history and tradition behind it, then an Old World wine might be for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a wine with strong fruit flavors and a more modern approach to winemaking, a New World wine might be more for you. 

Conclusion

The conclusion is that the differences between wines from the Old and New World have to do with various factors, such as climate, terroir, grape varieties and winemaking techniques. While both styles have their own unique features, it is ultimately up to you to decide which style you prefer. So why not try a few wines from each category and discover which one best suits your taste buds?