Have you heard of the term terroir?  Do you know what it means in relation to wine?  Without consulting Wikipedia, here is my definition:  Terroir:  the essence of the place where grapes are grown; the sense of place that one tastes in wines from a specific region.  Let’s make it simple, wine is made from grapes grown in soil and exhibits flavor characteristics from that soil, climate and man-made winemaking techniques.  For me, the best wines are from regions and years where the conditions are so perfect, that wine makers merely need to stand back and, “Don’t mess it up.”  Here are some of my favorite winemaking regions that express terroir:

Burgundy – how can vineyards that are just yards apart taste worlds apart?  Apparently, the monks got it right when they designated the parcels!  My faves:  Romanee-Conti and Joseph Drouhin.

South Africa – I am on a huge south African wine kick right now.  Founded by the Dutch, S. Africa has come a long way since Apartheid.  Look for Chenin Blancs and Bordeaux blends that are just as good as their French colleagues, and less than half the price!  Go to wineries:  Raats, Rustenberg, Indaba and Mulderbosch.

Argentina – love it! love it!  Is there really any bad wine from this country??  Not the ones that I am drinking anyway!  Priced from $10 to $30 these wines are a bargain!  While known for Malbec, there are some terrific blends and other varietals as well.  Go to producers:  Bodega Benegas, and Bodega Noemia.

Want to learn more about wine?  Join a wine club!  There are several great ones in Greenville, SC.  Vino’s etc., NY Butcher Shoppe and West End Wine & Spirits, just to name a few!