What Are Mountain Wines

What Are Mountain Wines? Exploring High-Altitude Gems from France and Italy

When it comes to wine, altitude matters. Mountain wines—those grown in high-altitude vineyards—are some of the most distinctive and captivating bottles you’ll encounter. These wines are shaped by rugged terrain, cooler climates, and often extreme growing conditions, resulting in unique expressions of terroir. For wine lovers seeking something truly special, mountain wines offer a thrilling journey into the heights of viticulture.

What Defines a Mountain Wine?

Mountain wines are produced from vineyards situated at high elevations, typically above 500 meters (1,640 feet), though this can vary depending on the region. These vineyards are often perched on steep slopes, where the combination of altitude, sunlight exposure, and rocky soils creates a challenging yet rewarding environment for grape growing.

The key characteristics of mountain wines include:

• Bright acidity: Cooler temperatures at higher elevations help preserve natural acidity, giving the wines freshness and structure.

• Intense aromatics: The combination of sunlight and cooler nights allows grapes to develop complex aromatic profiles.

• Firm tannins: Mountain soils are often poor and rocky, forcing vines to struggle and produce smaller, more concentrated berries with robust tannins.

• Mineral-driven profiles: The rocky, well-drained soils impart a distinct minerality to the wines.

Mountain wines are often described as "wines of place," as their unique growing conditions make them impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Mountain Wines from France

France is home to several iconic mountain wine regions, each with its own distinct style and character.

1. Savoie (French Alps)
   Nestled in the shadow of the Alps, Savoie is a haven for high-altitude wines. The region is known for its crisp, mineral-driven whites made from Jacquère and Altesse grapes. Look for producers like Domaine Belluard, a pioneer of biodynamic farming in the region, whose wines showcase the purity and precision of Alpine terroir.

2. Côte-Rôtie (Northern Rhône)
   While not as high in elevation as Savoie, Côte-Rôtie’s steep, terraced vineyards along the Rhône River are a testament to mountain viticulture. Syrah reigns here, producing wines with intense aromas of violet, black pepper, and smoked meat. Domaine Jamet is a standout producer, crafting elegant, age-worthy wines that reflect the rugged beauty of the region.

3. Roussillon (Pyrenees Foothills)
   In the foothills of the Pyrenees, Roussillon’s high-altitude vineyards produce powerful, sun-drenched wines. Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah thrive here, often yielding rich, full-bodied reds with a touch of wild herbaceousness. Domaine Matassa is a must-try producer, known for their natural, low-intervention wines that capture the essence of the mountains.

Mountain Wines from Italy

Italy’s diverse landscape is dotted with high-altitude vineyards, particularly in the north, where the Alps and Apennines provide ideal conditions for mountain wines.

1. Valle d’Aosta
   Italy’s smallest wine region, Valle d’Aosta, is tucked into the Alps and produces some of the country’s most thrilling high-altitude wines. Indigenous varieties like Petit Rouge and Prié Blanc shine here, offering vibrant, alpine-inspired wines. Les Crêtes is a leading producer, crafting elegant, terroir-driven wines that reflect the region’s rugged beauty.

2. Valtellina (Lombardy)
   Valtellina, located in the foothills of the Alps, is home to some of Italy’s most dramatic vineyards. Nebbiolo (locally called Chiavennasca) is the star here, producing ethereal, aromatic reds with notes of rose, cherry, and earth. Ar.Pe.Pe. is a benchmark producer, known for their traditional, long-aged wines that capture the soul of the mountains.

3. Etna (Sicily)
   Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, is one of Italy’s most exciting wine regions. The high-altitude vineyards on its slopes are planted with Nerello Mascalese and Carricante, producing wines with remarkable finesse and volcanic minerality. Frank Cornelissen is a legendary producer, crafting natural wines that are as wild and untamed as the volcano itself.

Why Mountain Wines Matter

Mountain wines are more than just a curiosity—they represent the resilience and ingenuity of winemakers who work in some of the most challenging conditions on earth. These wines are a testament to the power of terroir, offering a sense of place that is impossible to replicate. For those who appreciate wines with character, complexity, and a story to tell, mountain wines are a must-explore category.

At our store, we’re proud to champion small, organic producers who honor the traditions of mountain viticulture. Whether you’re drawn to the alpine freshness of Savoie or the volcanic intensity of Etna, we invite you to discover the heights of what wine can be.

Next time you’re browsing our shelves, ask us about our favorite mountain wines—we’re always excited to share these high-altitude treasures with fellow wine enthusiasts. Cheers to exploring the peaks of viticulture!