Granite (soil)
Granite in viticulture refers to soils derived from the weathering of crystalline igneous rock, composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica. These soils are valued in several wine regions for their influence on vine growth and wine style, particularly in warmer climates where granite’s drainage and heat-retention properties shape ripening and flavour.[1]
Background
Granite is formed from the slow cooling of magma deep within the Earth’s crust, creating hard, crystalline rock that weathers into sandy, coarse soils. Such soils are found in a number of viticultural areas, notably in Beaujolais and the northern Rhône Valley in France, in parts of Galicia and northern Portugal, in the Douro Valley, and in certain New World regions such as South Africa.[2]
Historically, vineyards on granite have been prized for their ability to yield wines with freshness and aromatic lift, often in regions where other soils might encourage higher vigour or softer structures.[3]
Characteristics
Granite soils are typically poor in nutrients and shallow, forcing vines to send roots deep in search of water and minerals. They are free-draining, which helps regulate vine vigour, but also means they can be challenging in very dry conditions. Granite retains heat effectively, promoting ripening even in cooler climates.[4]
From a viticultural perspective, granite is associated with low fertility, moderate water availability, and strong temperature regulation. These conditions favour the development of concentrated fruit with balanced acidity, often with marked minerality in the resulting wines.[5]
Influence on Wine Style
Granite-based terroirs are linked to distinct wine styles. In Beaujolais, particularly in the crus such as Morgon and Moulin-à-Vent, Gamay grown on granite produces deeply coloured, structured wines with floral and mineral notes.[6]
In the northern Rhône, granite slopes of appellations such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie provide ideal conditions for Syrah, contributing to wines of intensity, aromatic lift, and longevity. In Galicia and northern Portugal, granite soils are associated with crisp, high-acid whites, especially from Alvarinho.[7]
Beyond Europe, granite soils in parts of South Africa have been credited with producing vibrant, mineral-driven wines, showing the global relevance of this soil type to fine wine production.[8]
See also
References
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015.
- ↑ White, Soils for Fine Wines, Oxford University Press, 2003.
- ↑ Wilson, Terroir: The Role of Geology, Climate, and Culture in the Making of French Wines, University of California Press, 1998.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, 2015.
- ↑ Bavoux, La vigne et le vin en Bourgogne: Sols et terroirs, Éditions Universitaires de Dijon, 2014. (French original)
- ↑ Johnson & Robinson, The World Atlas of Wine, 8th ed., 2019.
- ↑ Wilson, Terroir: The Role of Geology, Climate, and Culture in the Making of French Wines, 1998.
- ↑ White, Soils for Fine Wines, Oxford University Press, 2003.