Volcanic Soils

Cooler Than The Dinosaurs
Volcanic soils represent some of the most distinctive terroirs in the wine world, creating wines with unique mineral signatures and remarkable complexity. These soils, formed by ancient volcanic activity, range from hardened lava flows to settled ash deposits, each bringing its own character to the wines they produce.

Character & Impact:
Wines from volcanic soils typically show pronounced acidity and a distinctive mineral edge. The poor water retention of these soils creates beneficial stress for the vines, leading to smaller berries with concentrated flavors. Common descriptors include smoky aromas, precise fruit expression, and a characteristic saline quality that wine lovers often describe as "minerality". These soils are also naturally resistant to phylloxera, allowing for some of the oldest ungrafted vines in the world.

Global Expression:
From Soave's elegant whites to Etna's complex reds, volcanic soils shape distinctive wines worldwide. In Soave, volcanic-rich soils contribute to the wines' exotic fruit character and mineral complexity. Other notable volcanic regions include Greece's Santorini, known for its mineral-driven Assyrtiko; Hungary's Tokaj; the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily; and Spain's Canary Islands. Each region produces wines that speak clearly of their volcanic origins, though expressing this terroir differently through local grape varieties and traditions.

To Sum It All Up...
Volcanic soils create wines of unique character and longevity, offering a fascinating expression of their dramatic origins. While these wines may differ in style and grape variety, they share a common thread of mineral complexity, precision, and distinctive terroir expression that makes them some of the most compelling wines in the world