Old World
Terroir-driven: Strong focus on expressing the unique characteristics of the vineyard site.
Elegant and restrained styles: Often less fruit-forward, with more emphasis on structure, minerality, and complexity.
Lower alcohol levels: Cooler climates result in less ripe grapes and lower alcohol.
Traditional techniques: Adherence to regional regulations and winemaking methods (e.g., AOC in France, DOC in Italy).
- France
Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, blends)
Burgundy (Pinot Noir, Chardonnay)
Champagne (Sparkling wines from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier)
Rhône Valley (Syrah, Grenache, Viognier)
Loire Valley (Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc)
Alsace (Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris)
Provence (Rosé wines)
- Italy
Tuscany (Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Super Tuscans)
Piedmont (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Barbera)
Veneto (Prosecco, Amarone, Soave)
Sicily (Nero d'Avola, Etna wines)
Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Pinot Grigio, white blends)
- Spain
Rioja (Tempranillo)
Ribera del Duero (Tempranillo)
Cava Region (Penedès) (Sparkling wines)
Sherry Region (Jerez) (Fortified wines)
Galicia (Albariño)
- Germany
Mosel (Riesling)
Rheingau (Riesling, Spätburgunder/Pinot Noir)
Pfalz (Riesling, other whites)
- Portugal
Douro Valley (Port, Douro reds)
Vinho Verde (Light, aromatic whites)
Alentejo (Rich reds)
- Austria
Wachau (Grüner Veltliner, Riesling)
Burgenland (Sweet and red wines)
- Switzerland
Valais (Chasselas, Pinot Noir, Gamay)
- Greece
Santorini (Assyrtiko)
Nemea (Agiorgitiko)
Naoussa (Xinomavro)
- Hungary
Tokaj (Sweet Tokaji Aszú wines, Furmint)
- Other Mediterranean Regions
Lebanon
Bekaa Valley (Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cinsault)
Turkey
Thrace and Anatolia regions