Definition: Wine-growing soils (main types)

The best vineyard soils are poor soils that are generally unsuitable for any other crop. They vary greatly in terms of geology and age, and may consist of alluvial deposits of varying coarseness, composed of limestone, granite or schist. Whether relatively flat or steep, the best soils have good drainage in common, with a carefully measured water supply that provides the vines with the minimum required during dry periods. High-quality terroirs are rare because it is not easy to bring together all these elements of soil science, which are difficult for humans to improve.