Old Vines vs. New Vines: What's the Difference in the Glass?
At Marchelle, we’re in constant conversation with our vineyards. And few voices speak more deeply than old vines — gnarled, wise, and weathered from decades (sometimes more than a century) of growing in place. But what makes old vines so different from their younger counterparts? And why are we so passionate about preserving and working with them?
Here’s a look at the difference between old vines and new vines — and what it means for the wine in your glass.
The Anatomy of Age
Young vines — typically less than 10 years old — are energetic and vigorous. They grow quickly, bear more fruit, and often produce wines with bright, expressive fruit flavors. But with youth comes unpredictability. These vines are still finding their footing, literally and figuratively, as their roots haven’t yet dug deep into the soil’s complex layers.
Middle-aged vines are in their prime at around 11 to 40 years old—mature enough to have established deep root systems and balanced canopies, yet still vigorous and productive. They tend to deliver fruit with consistency and concentration, often offering a vibrant expression of varietal character. These vines strike a balance between youthful exuberance and seasoned structure, producing wines with freshness, precision, and depth. While not yet gnarled or wizened, they begin to show the early character of their site. Many commercial vineyards begin ripping out and replanting their vines around 20-25 years old.
Old vines, by contrast, are slow and deliberate. Once a vine crosses the 40-50 year threshold (and especially past 70+), yields naturally decline, but the quality of the fruit often increases. Their roots burrow deep into the earth, tapping into water reserves and mineral veins that younger vines can’t yet reach. The result? Grapes that offer more balance and harmony along with concentration and complexity.
“Old vine wines produce balance and harmony just like our elders. We want to acknowledge them for their wisdom and all the things that they have lived through.”
Greg La Follette, Head Winemaker, Marchelle Wines
What Old Vines Bring to Wine
Wines from old vines tend to carry a signature fingerprint:
Lower yields, but more intensity
Richer textures and deeper structure
Greater site expression — a purer reflection of place
A sense of maturity — not just in the vine, but in the wine
At Marchelle, we call these our wines of memory. From the 139-year-old Cinsaut at Bechthold Vineyard to century-old Carignane and Zinfandel vines at Jessie’s Grove, these plants have weathered world wars, prohibition, and droughts. And yet, year after year, they continue to give — not just fruit, but soul.
Marchelle winemaker, Greg La Follette discusses the characteristics of old vines and what makes the special.
What About Young Vines?
Younger vines play a vital role in our portfolio too. They bring freshness, energy, and vibrant fruit character. Wines from these vines often leap from the glass — floral, juicy, and approachable. At Marchelle, we often work with younger vines for early-drinking, expressive styles or in blends to complement the depth of old vine fruit.
The Legacy We Protect
Old vines aren’t just agricultural assets — they’re living history. Many of our old vine sources, like Jessie’s Grove and Bechthold Vineyard, are among the oldest continuously farmed vineyards in the country. These sites require careful stewardship, and we consider it an honor to work with growers who share our reverence for heritage.
To us, old vines aren’t a trend — they’re a trust.
Ready to taste the difference? Join us for a Barrel-to-Bottle tasting and discover how vine age shapes character, flavor, and story in every sip.
