New World vs. Old World: Do you know what the difference is between the two?
Old World wines are produced in the regions or countries where the grape varieties originate, including countries in Europe and the Middle East. France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Austria, Switzerland, Greece, Georgia, Croatia, Hungary and Israel, Lebanon are some countries that are counted as Old World.
In the Old World, there are more rules and regulations that dictate winemaking practices and ultimately shape the style of wine. Old World wines are generally described as lighter, with higher acidity, less alcohol and subtle fruitiness. While Old World wines are made with the same winemaking techniques that have been used for centuries, New World winemakers are often more experimental in their winemaking, so winemaking techniques and the final product can vary greatly. Terroir and climate are important factors that contribute to the different flavors of wine-and indeed, different vintages produce very different wines.
New World wine-producing countries include Argentina, Australia, Chile, South Africa, New Zealand and the United States.
As New World wines are made in countries or regions where grapes are imported, so the history of winemaking there began later.
In warmer countries, the grapes used are usually more mature. The result is, full-bodied wines with high alcohol content that often have a stronger fruit flavor.
The New World wine style, on the other hand, is described as more mature, less acidic, alcoholic and with fruity notes.
