Old World Wines

The Old World designation refers to countries in Europe where modern winemaking techniques originated. These countries include France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Germany, Hungary, Croatia, and England — all of which have had a major influence on the rest of the winemaking countries in the world.

Old World wines use grapes that are typically grown in cool temperate climates, giving it a lighter body, lower alcohol content and higher acidity. Flavour-wise, they are more earthy, mineral and floral. Striving to achieve balanced tannins and minerality as a compliment to the high acidity, these elements produce the satisfying freshness associated with popular old world red wines made from grapes like Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.

Old World Wine Regions

France

• Bordeaux
• Burgundy (Bourgogne)
• Champagne
• Rhône Valley
• Loire Valley
• Alsace
• Provence
• Languedoc-Roussillon

Italy

• Piemonte (Piedmont)
• Toscana (Tuscany)
• Veneto
• Sicily
• Friuli-Venezia Giulia
• Trentino-Alto Adige
• Campania
• Puglia

Spain

• Rioja
• Ribera del Duero
• Priorat
• Rías Baixas
• Jerez (Sherry)

Germany

• Mosel
• Rheingau
• Pfalz
• Baden
• Nahe

Portugal

• Douro
• Vinho Verde
• Dão
• Alentejo
• Madeira

Austria

• Wachau
• Kamptal
• Burgenland

Other Classic Regions

• Greece: Naoussa, Santorini, Nemea
• Hungary: Tokaj
• Switzerland: Valais