High Elevation Wines: What’s all the fuss about?
Over the years working as a sommelier, and more recently as I was compiling the portfolio for the Grape & Vine website, I noticed that a lot of the wineries I end up working with grow vines at high altitudes. This is not a coincidence. While the quality of wine can be influenced by various factors, one often-overlooked aspect is the altitude at which the grapes are grown.
In recent years, the trend of cultivating vineyards at higher altitudes has gained momentum in the world of winemaking. This shift is not merely a fad; it comes with numerous benefits that enhance the flavour, character, and quality of the wine. In this blog post, we will explore the advantages of growing grapes at high altitudes and how it contributes to the overall excellence of the wine produced.
What is considered ‘high elevation’?
The first thing to note is that what's considered high altitude for one wine region may not be the same for another. For example, in some parts of Europe, vineyards at 500 meters above sea level might be considered relatively high, whereas in regions with extreme altitudes like the Andes Mountains in South America, vineyards can be located at much higher elevations, well over 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level. However, as a general rule of thumb, vineyards that are situated at elevations of 500 meters (approximately 1,640 feet) above sea level and higher, are often considered high-altitude vineyards.
What are the benefits of growing vines at high altitudes?
1. Cooler Climates for Grapes
One of the most significant advantages of high-altitude vineyards is the cooler climate they offer. As you climb to higher elevations, temperatures tend to drop. Grapes thrive in these cooler conditions, as they slow down their ripening process. This extended ripening period allows for a more gradual development of flavours and aromas in the grapes. The result is a wine with greater complexity and depth.
2. Retained Acidity
High-altitude vineyards often receive more direct sunlight due to their elevation. This sunlight exposure is essential for the photosynthesis process, but the cooler temperatures prevent grapes from overheating. As a result, grapes maintain higher levels of natural acidity. Acidity is crucial in balancing the sweetness and fruitiness of wine, making it crisp and refreshing on the palate.
3. Enhanced Aroma and Flavour Profiles
Altitude has a profound influence on the flavour and aroma compounds found in grapes. The cooler temperatures, increased sunlight, and reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes encourage the development of more delicate and complex aromas. These conditions can result in notes of flowers, herbs, and minerals, adding layers of depth to the wine's profile. Wines grown at high altitudes often exhibit a unique and memorable character.
4. Reduced Disease Pressure
High-altitude vineyards often experience fewer pest and disease issues. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels discourage the proliferation of moulds, mildews, and insects that can harm grapevines. This reduces the need for chemical treatments and pesticides, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly winemaking practices.
5. Distinct Terroir
The concept of terroir, the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography that influences the flavour of wine, is particularly pronounced in high-altitude vineyards. The combination of these factors creates a distinct terroir that is reflected in the wine's taste. This sense of place adds to the allure of wines from high-altitude regions, as they can convey a sense of the vineyard's specific location and history.
6. Longevity and Aging Potential
Wines produced at high altitudes often have excellent ageing potential. The elevated acidity, balanced fruitiness, and well-developed tannins make these wines ideal candidates for extended cellaring. As they mature, these wines can evolve and develop even more complex and nuanced flavours, making them a treasure for collectors.
In the world of winemaking, altitude matters. The benefits of growing grapes at high altitudes are evident in the enhanced flavour profiles, balanced acidity, and unique character of the wines produced. While these vineyards present challenges such as steep slopes and extreme weather conditions and low yields, the rewards in the bottle are well worth the effort. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring wines from high-altitude regions can be an exciting journey into the world of exceptional flavours and terroir-driven experiences.
Intrigued? Try these 800m+ elevation wines below:
