Going through my tasting notes I discovered that whenever I use minerality to describe a wine it is, for the most part, in line with Dennis Lapuyade's description of a non-fruity and acidic taste, even though, in my case, not necessarily neutral. Filtering my database for the M-word only young white wines remain on the list, especially Riesling from Germany and non-fruity Sauvignon Blancs from Austria.
In my personal notes I use minerality to describe both taste and mouthfeel, never as a synonym for terroir. To me there is a distinction between minerality and terroir. On the one hand I think minerality can be an expression of terroir, among other factors. On the other hand there is no taste or mouthfeel I would describe as "terroir".
As many wine-lovers are on the hunt for wines reflecting their terroir next time asking the sommelier for a wine which, in their opinion, is a great example for its specific terroir might be a more enjoyable experience, sparking a vivid discussion at the table rather than asking for a mineral wine. If it turns out to be a mineral one, the table falls silent, and the idea of deep time embedded in a sip of wine comes to life - seize the moment. After all a well-made wine mindfully experienced can enrich our lives and form a lasting memory.
Thanks, Noah, for sharing your experience. I agree with all your thoughtful considerations. At the end of the day, an outstanding wine creates lasting memories.
Going through my tasting notes I discovered that whenever I use minerality to describe a wine it is, for the most part, in line with Dennis Lapuyade's description of a non-fruity and acidic taste, even though, in my case, not necessarily neutral. Filtering my database for the M-word only young white wines remain on the list, especially Riesling from Germany and non-fruity Sauvignon Blancs from Austria.
In my personal notes I use minerality to describe both taste and mouthfeel, never as a synonym for terroir. To me there is a distinction between minerality and terroir. On the one hand I think minerality can be an expression of terroir, among other factors. On the other hand there is no taste or mouthfeel I would describe as "terroir".
As many wine-lovers are on the hunt for wines reflecting their terroir next time asking the sommelier for a wine which, in their opinion, is a great example for its specific terroir might be a more enjoyable experience, sparking a vivid discussion at the table rather than asking for a mineral wine. If it turns out to be a mineral one, the table falls silent, and the idea of deep time embedded in a sip of wine comes to life - seize the moment. After all a well-made wine mindfully experienced can enrich our lives and form a lasting memory.
Thanks, Noah, for sharing your experience. I agree with all your thoughtful considerations. At the end of the day, an outstanding wine creates lasting memories.