Terroir, in the context of wine, represents a specificity of place and characteristics that are influenced by a particular wine region’s geography, soil conditions and climate.
Terroir is a French term derived from the word terre, meaning “land” and so it makes sense that its meaning comes from the French wine making philosophy/belief that a vineyard’s environment has significant impact on style. The term can be used in the context of both large regions (for example, Bordeaux) as well as in smaller zones within a vineyard with differing micro-climates, soil types, etc.
Provided by: Wine Frog