In the world of wine, you will often hear mention of New World and Old World Wines. To the everyday wine drinker this means nothing, so the simplest way of thinking about it is traditional wine producing countries such as France and Italy, and those newer to wine production such as New Zealand and the United States. New World wine regions are now very well established, pushing boundaries and helping to redefine the art of winemaking. So, what exactly characterizes a New World wine region, which areas are making waves, and what are the most popular varietals that would come under the banner of New World?

Defining the New World

In broad strokes, New World wine regions encompass areas outside of Europe where viticulture has gained prominence more recently. Unlike their Old World counterparts, New World regions often boast newer vineyards, innovative winemaking techniques, and a willingness to experiment with grape varieties and styles.

Prominent New World Wine Regions

1. United States

• California: Perhaps the quintessential New World wine region, California's diverse terroir spans from the cool coastal vineyards of Sonoma and Napa Valley to the sun-drenched expanses of Paso Robles. Renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, but also more sweet and less traditional rose varieties.
• Oregon: Known primarily for its exceptional Pinot Noir, Oregon's Willamette Valley has emerged as a leading force in sustainable winemaking, emphasizing terroir-driven expressions and organic practices.

2. Australia

• Barossa Valley: Situated in South Australia, Barossa Valley is acclaimed for its bold Shiraz wines, characterized by ripe fruit flavours and robust tannins. The region's warm climate and ancient soils contribute to the production of high-quality, full-bodied reds.
• Margaret River: Western Australia's Margaret River region is celebrated for its elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon blends. Its maritime influence, coupled with well-drained soils, fosters the cultivation of premium grapes with distinct varietal characteristics.

3. South America

• Chile: Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Chile's diverse terroir offers an array of microclimates ideal for winemaking. From the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon of Maipo Valley to the crisp Sauvignon Blanc of Casablanca Valley, Chilean wines showcase the country's rich viticultural heritage.
• Argentina: Mendoza, Argentina's premier wine region, is synonymous with Malbec, a varietal that thrives in the region's high-altitude vineyards. With its bold fruit flavours and velvety texture, Argentine Malbec has gained international acclaim, propelling the country to the forefront of New World winemaking.

Popular New World Wine Varietals

While New World wine regions produce a diverse array of varietals, several grape varieties have garnered widespread recognition and acclaim:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Revered for its robust structure and age-worthy character, Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in regions like California, Australia, and Chile, yielding wines of exceptional depth and complexity.
• Chardonnay: With its versatility and adaptability to various climates, Chardonnay is a staple of New World winemaking, offering expressions ranging from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery.
• Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile, Sauvignon Blanc thrives in regions like New Zealand's Marlborough and South Africa's Western Cape, producing refreshing wines with distinctive herbal and tropical fruit notes.

Are You New or Old World?

As the world of wine continues to evolve, New World regions are helping to make wine more accessible and enjoyable for a wider range of people. Whether it's the bold reds of California, the elegant whites of Margaret River, or the vibrant Malbecs of Mendoza, exploring New World wines is always an interesting experience and even if you have your old favourites, is something we should all try every once in a while.  But which are you? Old World or New World?