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New World and Old World wine definitions
The traditional binary classification of wines into “Old World” and “New World” is increasingly seen as overly simplistic in today’s complex global wine landscape.
“Old World” has traditionally been used to describe European winemaking countries – including France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and Hungary. With rich histories spanning centuries, most dating back to ancient times, wine production in these nations is a core part of their national and cultural identities.
On the other hand, “New World” refers to countries such as the United States, Canada, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Many of these wine-producing countries adopted grape varieties and winemaking techniques from the Old World.
In addition, while these terms were initially helpful in distinguishing between two primary styles of winemaking – the generally lighter, more terroir-focused wines from the Old World and the often fruit-forward, higher-alcohol wines from the New World – they don’t adequately capture the diversity and nuance present in modern winemaking.
In recent years, the lines have blurred significantly, with wine producers worldwide making wine in every style.
Moreover, with the emergence of China, India and parts of Eastern Europe onto the international market, the Old World/New World dichotomy becomes more problematic. For example, despite China’s recent debut in the global wine scene, it is one of the oldest wine cultures in the world, with a history of winemaking that dates back thousands of years.
Therefore, while the terms Old World and New World can provide an introductory framework for understanding some broad differences, wine professionals and enthusiasts now prefer to focus on the specific region, terroir and winemaking philosophy to truly understand and describe a wine’s character.
Old World wines – rooted in tradition
Old World is a term used for wines that originate from regions that have a long history of winemaking, mainly in Europe.
While certain key characteristics traditionally identified Old World wines, this has become less relevant in today’s global wine scene. However, there are some commonalities among Old World wines.
Old World wines are often labelled by region rather than grape variety. For instance, Bordeaux, Burgundy and Rioja are famous Old World wine regions with specific grape varieties and winemaking rules.
Old World wines are often made using traditional winemaking methods. They are typically more terroir-driven, which means the climate, soil, topography and other environmental factors are thought to be more expressive in these wines.
Generally, Old World wines can be more restrained or subtler in their flavours. Fruit flavours may be less dominant, and you might find more minerality or earthy, savoury notes.
These characteristics are, however, generalities. There are exceptions in every region. The winemaking style can also vary significantly based on the winemaker’s preferences.
New World wines – breaking the mould
New World wines refer to wines produced outside the traditional wine-growing areas of Europe. This includes countries such as the United States, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina and Chile.
New World countries aren’t typically as restricted by traditional winemaking rules and regulations – the result of the appellation systems in Old World countries. This allows for more innovation and experimentation in the vineyard and winery.
Other characteristics that have been typically associated with New World wines include labelling wines by grape variety rather than region, fruit-forward profiles, higher alcohol content (some New World wine regions enjoy warmer climates which allow the grapes to ripen more fully) and a noticeable influence of oak in maturing wine.
However, it’s important to note that these characteristics are general, and there are many exceptions. Winemaking styles can vary significantly from one winemaker to another, and there’s a spectrum within New World wines just as there is within Old World wines.
