Wine for Normal People Ep 596: Back to Basics - Defining Old World & New World (and why it still matters)
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Feb 18, 2026 A lively return to basics that defines Old World as Europe and New World as colonized wine regions. It explores historical roots, latitude and climate effects on ripeness, and how soils create terroir differences. It also covers regulatory systems that lock in traditional styles and contrasts Old World consistency with New World freedom and diversity.
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Parker Tweet Sparked Shiraz Backlash
- Elizabeth shares Robert Parker's provocative tweet about discounted Australian Shirazes and the term 'anti-flavor wine elites.'
- The tweet angered both Aussie fans and restrained-wine proponents, spawning the AFWE insult reclaimed humorously by some.
Same Latitude Doesn’t Mean Same Climate
- Local climate modifiers (ocean currents, jet stream, bodies of water) mean 'same latitude' comparisons can be misleading.
- Elizabeth cites Gregory Jones and notes Mediterranean climates differ when only one coastline or different bodies of water influence them.
Soil Types Create Distinct Terroir Signatures
- Soil geology differs strongly between Old and New World: Europe concentrates limestone, marl, slate, schist and clay, while New World shows more volcanic, basalt, alluvial soils.
- Elizabeth argues these differences shape vine behavior and wine character.