Old World vs New World wines

Tradition, climate, winemaking and personal taste all shape what ends up in our glass. How many time have you read about a New World wine or heard someone reference an Old World variety?

While you can take an educated guess at the main difference between the two (country of origin) it’s not always clear what the other distinguishing features are. Here’s the R&J Fine Wines guide to Old World vs New World wines and what to look out for.

What do 'Old World' and 'New World' mean?

Old World

Traditionally refers to Europe’s historic wine-producing countries. Particularly France, Italy, Spain and Greece.
Wine culture is strongly linked to regional tradition, established appellations and long-standing production rules.
The place of origin is often given greater prominence than the grape variety.

New World

Usually refers to wine-producing countries outside Europe, including Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Chile, Argentina and South Africa.
Modern commercial wine industries expanded rapidly from the 20th century onwards.
Producers have often embraced new technology, experimentation and clearer varietal labelling.

Classic style differences

These are useful generalisations but not fixed rules.

Old World style

Often lighter in body and more restrained in fruit character.
Frequently shows fresher acidity and, in many regions, more moderate alcohol.
Cooler climates can encourage savoury, earthy, mineral and herbal characteristics.

New World style

Often fuller-bodied, fruit-forward and riper in style.
Warmer growing conditions can produce richer fruit flavours and higher potential alcohol.
Modern winemaking can emphasise consistency, accessibility and immediate appeal.

The lines are becoming blurred

Today, climate, technology, international expertise and changing consumer tastes have made the Old World/New World divide far less clear-cut. A New World producer can make a restrained, elegant wine whilst an Old World producer can make a ripe, modern and fruit-driven wine.

Younger generations of growers and winemakers are increasingly willing to experiment while still respecting their regional heritage.

The better question may now be: what style is the producer trying to achieve?

That’s why it’s useful to look at tradition versus innovation in wine making to further see how the two differ.

Tradition versus innovation

Tradition

Oak barrels and other established ageing practices remain important across many classic European regions.
Regional rules may control permitted grapes, yields, production methods, labelling and ageing requirements.
Spain is a good example: traditional ageing terms can tell us something about how long a wine has matured.

Innovation

Stainless-steel tanks, temperature control and other modern techniques can preserve freshness and fruit character.
Some producers experiment with alternative vessels, infusion or extraction techniques and different approaches to ageing.
Innovation is not exclusive to the New World, adventurous winemakers now exist everywhere.

Rules, lables and how we choose wine

Old World wine labels often lead with the region or appellation. Understanding the place can help you understand what is in the bottle. New World labels have traditionally made selection easier by placing the grape variety prominently on the label.

The Old World classification systems protect identity and tradition, but they can also appear complicated to newer wine drinkers. New World producers have generally enjoyed greater freedom to experiment with grape varieties, blends, methods and branding. Making it clearer for those new to wine what they are selecting.

Our clients often ask: Does one make the better wine? Ultimately wine selection is about personal preference. Origin and tradition can guide us, but your own palate should make the final decision. Don’t forget:

“If you like it, you like it!”

We’re already starting to see very gradual changes from Old World producers. New generations are balancing tradition with economics, sustainability, changing climates and changing consumer tastes. The most exciting wines may increasingly combine the best of both worlds: a strong sense of place with intelligent modern winemaking.

Our advice! Taste widely, compare styles and let your taste buds decide.

Let us know your thoughts

Head over to our Facebook or Instagram profiles to share your thoughts and experiences of Old World and New World wines.

Do you generally prefer fresher, more restrained wines or richer, fruit-driven styles?
Do traditional appellation labels help you, or do you prefer seeing the grape variety clearly on the bottle?
Can you recommend a wine that challenges the usual Old World/New World stereotype?

At R & J Fine Wines we pride ourselves on providing the personal touch. If you would like to find out more about Old World and New World wines we’re very happy to answer your questions.

Just email Richard and the team with any questions you may have and they will be more than happy to help you out.