Old World vs. New World Wines: What’s the Difference?

A brief history into what defines “Old World” and “New World” Wines

Wine was first produced around 8000 years ago, originating in Georgia, and spreading quickly across Europe via the Roman and Phoenicians trade routes and migrations. There is evidence of wine as early as 6000 BC across China, Armenia, and Iran as well, however, Georgia is most often remarked as the birthplace of wine. The Vitus Vinifera, or as it is more affectionately known as, the “Mother Vine” was responsible for this newfound creation, with vines that took hold in new and different environments, it adapted and mutated into new varieties and clones, shaping the basis of the wine varieties we see today.

As the vines adapted to new locales, primarily France, Italy, Spain, and even Germany, natural selection took charge, producing indigenous vines for each region which they would eventual become known for. Over the centuries these regions became more and more refined, to the point where local authorities of the regions had to legislate what could be grown, and which wines were made in their regions. These regions became the standard for defining “Old World” wines.

New World Wines

Skipping forward almost 8000 years, to only 200 years ago, we see the birth of “New World” wines. Produced in countries beyond the Old World wine regions of Europe and the Middle East, locations such as Australia, New Zealand, the US, South America, and South Africa are homes to the New World wines. Originally established with cuttings from the Old World throughout newly colonized regions, varieties of vines grew, adapted, and still are evolving to this day to thrive in their new regions. In the New World it is the variety that controls the labelling. Unrestricted by regulations around what can be grown and where, winemakers experiment, using multiple untraditional techniques, as well as traditional ones, to produce different varieties of wines within the same wine region.

The most significant difference between the Old World, and New World wines, is the history and regulation of processes. Old World wines focus more on the regional nature of what they produce, typically producing very specific and limited varieties from each region each harvest.

Looking to explore Old and New World wines?

Carefully curated by in-house, explore the differences with Old World and New World wines with our Classic 2-Packs! Whether you love the subtle elegance of Burgundy or the bold, fruity punch of the Yarra Valley, we’ve got something for every palate.

Explore these iconic styles with our Great Value 2-Packs:

• White Pack: Arnaud Baillot Bourgogne Blanc & Dappled Yarra Valley Chardonnay
• Red Pack: Arnaud Baillot Bourgogne Rouge & Shadowfax Macedon Ranges Pinot Noir

Get them now as a 2-pack for $95 or a 4-pack for $180! Available via The Vincent Wine Shop.

Join us Tuesday 22nd of April for our Easter Favourites tasting this week, where you can sample an exceptionally curated collection of our seasonal favourites, perfectly paired with our $20 charcuterie plates from 5pm to 7pm.