Where are the vineyards?
Vineyards can be found in so many regions of the world and due to climate changes, more vineyards and regions are producing great wines. Just loo at the UK market.
Vineyards can generally be found in two bands around the world.
Within these bands, vines grow well because of several important factors.¨ Climate¨ Soil¨ Grape variety¨ Viticulture (growing vines)¨ Vinification (making wine)¨ Geographical Location¨ Luck of the year
Climate
You can see on the map that these bands of latitude stretch from 30-50 degrees north and 30- 50 degrees south of the Equator
Climatic conditions are all important when it comes to growing vines
The Soils: In general, the poorer the soil is, the better the wines will be. This is because the vine really has to work at producing leaves and grapes from the minerals and nutrients in the ground. The yields will be lower and the grapes will be of good concentrated quality.
The Grape variety: The vine Vitis Vinifera is most
suitable for making wine. Many of the names you will have seen or heard of. Varieties such as cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Merlot and Chardonnay. All these are called “Noble Varieties”
Growing vines (Viticulture) The cycle of vine growing is very much the same as that of a farmer or a gardener. They all have an annual calendar.
Making Wines (Vinification). On the skin of the grape there is a sticky waxy film called bloom. Airborne yeasts, which is a vital substance in the fermentation process, will attract themselves to this. Fermentation starts when the yeasts feed on the sugars in the grape, converting them to alcohol and carbon dioxide gas.
The Location: The ideal areas for growing vines are within the 30-50 degree bands and within these
regions, the wines will take on different characteristics.
And The Luck of the year: Ideal rainfall at the right time, no late frosts, plenty of sunshine, all play a part.
Priestly Palate 