Geologists Dispute Vineyard Soil's Influence On Wine Taste

UMPQUA VALLEY, Ore. -- Scientists who met in Portland this week for the annual meeting of the Geological Sociey of America had a less-than-usual topic of conversation: Wine. They tried to clear up any mistaken notions about the quality of vineyard soil influencing the taste of wine.

When it comes to theories about terroir (how soil, weather conditions, landforms and other local circumstances define the character of wine), scientists believe we know less than we think. They now say the belief that minerals could influence the flavor of wine is flawed, considering that the quantity of minerals in wine is so small that it can't be detected through human taste and smell. On the other hand, geologists said the soil's water holding capacity can have an influence on the wine taste, but this notion has barely been researched.

So what do people in Western Oregon think of this matter? Reporter Lindsay Doi is interviewing some local wine makers and she brings us their reaction on KEZI 9 News at 5 and 6.