Terroir

A French language term for all the characteristics of the vineyard site thought to be imparted to a particular wine. It is a term that includes geographic, geological, climatic and other attributes that can affect an area of growth as small as a few square meters.

Terroir effects of a unique viticultural area can produce unique wine characteristics that cannot be duplicated from other areas.  Major components of terroir are:  soil, climate, topography, hydrology and geology.  Desirable terroir effects can enhance the intrinsic value of a wine.