Wine Production Inputs and Grape Origin

Vintage

refers to the year the grapes are grown, not when the wine is bottled.

Appellation

the geographical area where the grapes are grown.

American Viticultural Area (AVA)

regions in the U.S. which are recognized for their unique terroirs (climate, soil, etc.).

Terroir

The combination of climate, soil, and other environmental factors that influence the quality and characteristics of the wine.

Prestige of Designated Areas

Smaller designated areas (e.g., Sonoma County) are generally considered more prestigious than larger, more general areas (e.g., California).

Sonoma County vs. California

Sonoma will often be more expensive because it's smaller and more renowned.

Land Value

Land price varies depending on the location and demand in the wine-growing region.

Labor Cost

Labor is an important consideration, especially in regions with manual harvesting or high vineyard maintenance.

Infrastructure

Availability of water, roads, and processing facilities can affect the cost and accessibility of a vineyard.

Scale

The size of the vineyard and its output can influence the overall cost.

Fruit Costs

Fruit costs can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as grape variety, yield per acre, and quality considerations.

Yields

Yields can range dramatically, from ½ ton/acre to 20 tons/acre depending on the climate, soil, and vineyard management practices.

Low Yields

generally produce higher-quality fruit, as vines are less stressed and focus more energy on fewer grapes.

High Yields

might lead to more diluted flavors, but are often more cost-effective for mass production.

Role of Grape Origin in Wine Pricing

Origin of the fruit significantly impacts the price of the wine.

Example of Wine Pricing

Wines from Sonoma County will generally command a higher price than wines labeled simply California due to Sonoma's reputation and smaller scale.

Key Takeaways

The vintage year (when grapes were grown) plays a crucial role in the characteristics of the wine, especially due to the influence of weather during the growing season.

Appellation or AVA Designations

indicate the origin of the grapes and affect the wine's prestige and price.

Fruit Costs Variability

highly variable, and yield per acre impacts both the cost and quality of the wine produced.