Terroir

/teh-RWAHR/
🍇Viticulture👃Tasting

The complete natural environment affecting wine character.

Full Definition

Terroir is the French concept that wine reflects its place - the complete environment including soil, climate, elevation, aspect, and microclimate. Some expand it to include human factors. Wines expressing terroir taste 'somewhere' rather than generic. Terroir is central to European wine philosophy and the appellation system.

Related Terms

climatesoilmicroclimate

See Also

mineralityappellation
TearsBack to GlossaryTertiary Aromas

More terms starting with T

Tannin

Polyphenols creating dry, astringent mouthfeel.

Tartaric Acid

The primary acid in wine grapes.

Tartrates

Harmless crystals that precipitate from wine.

TCA

Chemical compound causing cork taint.

Tertiary Aromas

Complex aromas developed through aging.

Texture

The tactile sensation of wine in the mouth.