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Micro-Climate is an opportunity for quality - 2007/05/09 13:16
Most white grapes do well in cooler climates. Red grapes like warmer temperatures. Some reds, like syrah, grenache, and mourvèdre can do well in hot weather. Pinot noir produces off flavors when subjected to a hot climate. Viognier is an elegant perfume like variety whose flavors degrade in hot weather. Chardonnay can produce favorable wines in any climate, but does its best in cooler temperatures. Centuries of trial and error in established grape growing areas have perfected which grape is cultivated in order to maximize all the elements of nature.
While large regions embrace their signature grapes there are always exceptions. Some producers grow non-standard varieties because of a micro-climate. Producers will use these micro-climates to produce small batches of higher quality wine and will grow varieties that would not do well outside of this atypical area.
A micro-climate is a geographic area with consistent, unusual weather. It can be a sunny spot on the lee side of the mountain or a valley that offers cooler weather than the surrounding area. Micro-climates can offer better growing conditions than the surrounding area. A micro-climate can offer less desirable conditions too.
Micro-climates can be found everywhere. Because of their singular characteristics, larger micro-climates can petition to become their own recognized growing region. Look to the wine bottle label for information about growing conditions. New world producers are quick to disclose the details of a vineyard if it is extraordinary. They will point out micro-climates and describe what aspect of the land or weather that makes the vineyard special. European producers enjoy micro-climates too, even though they are slow to add this information to their label. Choosing wine made from grapes grown in a micro-climate can be a way to drink better quality wine within your budget.
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