🪨 Loess

Loess is a fine yellow dust blown in by the wind. It settled in layers during the ice ages and over time became a soft, loose rock. Loess crumbles easily between the fingers and looks like flour. It is found in many parts of the world, including Europe.

Loess is interesting for grapes. It is porous, lets air and water through, and holds moisture and nutrients. The vine sends roots deep, and the soil is warm and fertile. But loess is easily washed away by rain, so terraces are built on slopes and held by stone walls to protect the soil. In dry spells loess holds water for the roots.

Loess is tied to soil as a general idea and to the Wachau valley, where it covers the terraces and gives soft wines with herbal and fruity notes. Wines from loess are usually round, with moderate acidity. Loess is also found in Alsace, Germany, Hungary and other places. It shows how grapes reflect the place where they grow.