By Malvina Demaj Last Updated: Mar 17, 2026

Terroir

(teuh-waa)

DEFINITION

Terroir

Terroir is a French term used to describe the complete environmental, geographical and human factors affecting a wine grape’s growth. It includes farming practices, soil, climate and topography, often described as a “sense of place”. The terroir influences the flavor, aroma and texture of the final wine, which is the basis of the French wine appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) system.

Did you know? Terroir isn't restricted to land plants; oysters and other bivalves have "merroir". The specific sea, nutrients and environment where they are harvested influences their taste, shape and briny quality.

An oenophile is a passionate lover of wine, someone who appreciates, studies and often collects wines based on their region, production methods and varietal. Beyond wine drinking, they are interested in the stories behind the labels, often possessing refined tasting skills, able to identify subtle tasting notes. Oenophiles may be wine professional like sommeliers or wine merchants, or passionate hobbyists who frequently attend wine tastings and join wine clubs.

GSM

(jee-ess-em)

GSM stands for a popular red wine blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre, originating the Rhône Valley in France.

Climate

(klai-muht)

Climate refers to the long term weather patterns, including temperature, sunlight, wind and rainfall of a particular region which directly influence grape growth and decides the wine's style.

Vintage

(vin-tuhj)

The term "vintage" refers to the year in which the grapes of a particular wine were harvested. A wine's vintage reflects the unique weather and growing conditions of that season, heavily influencing the flavor, quality and character of the wine.

Microclimate

(mai-krow-klai-muht)

Microclimate refers to the unique, localized temperature, humidity, sunlight and wind within a specific area of a vineyard different from the surrounding region. A microclimate allows for distinct and complex flavor profiles within a single vineyard.

Digestif

(dai-jeh-stuhf)

A digestif is an alcoholic beverage served after a meal with the aim of aiding digestion and soothing the stomach. They can be fortified wines like Port, Sherry and Vermouth, bitter herbal liqueurs (amari) or cocktails that contain any of these ingredients.

Earthy

(uh-thee)

"Earthy" in wine refers to savory aromas and flavors similar to soil, forest floor, dried leaves, wet rocks, mushrooms, or truffles. Some common grapes that display earthiness in their wines are Burgundy Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and Tempranillo.