CLIMATE MATTERS
Selbach Mosel Riesling
Cool Climate Wines
Background on Cool Climates Cool climates, like Germany or New Zealand, challenge grapes to ripen fully due to shorter growing seasons, variable temperatures and less sunshine. Geography and elevation matter, too; for instance, Sonoma County, California, is considered a “cool climate,” despite having warmer summers than New Zealand. These conditions produce wines with lower sugar and alcohol, higher acidity and refreshing tart fruit flavours with delicate aromas. Cool Climate Landscapes Cool climate regions might sit at higher elevations, closer to the ocean or at higher latitudes. Think of the craggy coasts of New Zealand or the misty valleys of Germany—these landscapes keep temperatures low, allowing the sun to do most of the ripening work. However, as our climates evolve, there are increasingly warm pockets within cool regions, allowing some moderate climate grapes to grow on valley floors, for instance. Sourcing grapes from across a broader region or focusing on smaller appellations gives winemakers options to tailor flavours and styles in unique ways.
Germany $22.99 23242 This is a typical off dry Germanic expression with boisterous flavours of green apple, lime and ripe stone fruit. Brisk acidity sings throughout, leading to a citrus-forward finish.
Classic Cool Climate Varieties Cabernet Franc : Fresh with red fruit, green bell pepper and a hint of earthiness. Chenin Blanc : High acid, with flavours of pear, honey and sometimes a hint of ginger. Gamay : Light and juicy, with red cherry and floral notes. Grüner Veltliner : Lively, with citrus, white pepper and subtle herbal tones. Riesling : Zesty with green apple, lime and a touch of minerality. Sauvignon Blanc : Herbaceous with grapefruit, gooseberry and green pepper flavours. Cool Climate Countries • Austria • Canada • Chile • Germany • France (Loire Valley, Burgundy) • New Zealand
Bordertown Okanagan Valley Cabernet Franc BC VQA $22.99 237266 This wine is big and boisterous with uninhibited flavours of blackberry, plum, bramble and spice alongside herbaceous green pepper. A full-bodied wine with plush tannins and a lengthy finish.
Characteristics of Cool Climate Wines
Cool climate wines tend to be lighter-bodied, lower in alcohol and higher in acidity. The shorter, cooler growing seasons slow sugar development in grapes, creating lively, zesty flavours. Expect notes of citrus and green apple in white wines and cranberry and other red fruits for red wines. Both can highlight fresh herbs that are refreshing and bright on the palate. In a tasting, focus on how the wine’s acidity interacts with your taste buds, creating that crisp, mouth-watering sensation. Cool Climate Winemaking Styles In cool climates, winemakers often use stainless steel or neutral oak barrels to retain freshness and emphasize the wine’s natural acidity and minerality. By avoiding heavy oak influence, they preserve the bright, crisp qualities and nuanced aromas, allowing regional traits to shine.
The Ned Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand $19.99 66759 The Ned Sauvignon Blanc offers lively acidity and delivers classic varietal characteristics of lime zest, punchy herbs and a bright burst of gooseberry.
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