Terraces are flat or gently sloping vineyard platforms built into steep hillsides. They are often supported by stone walls or earth banks and allow vines to be planted and cultivated on slopes that would otherwise be difficult or unsafe to farm. Terraced vineyards are found in many wine regions, including the Douro Valley in Portugal, Lavaux in Switzerland and parts of the Cinque Terre in Italy.
Terraces create usable planting surfaces, help manage soil erosion and provide access for vineyard workers. They can improve drainage and allow growers to manage water movement on steep terrain. Construction and maintenance are labour-intensive, especially where stone walls must be repaired by hand.
Terraced vineyards often require manual or specialised equipment for pruning, spraying and harvesting. Narrow platforms and steep access can limit mechanisation and increase production costs. Terrace orientation, wall height, soil depth and slope exposure influence sunlight, drainage and vine growth.
Example: the steep, terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley are used to grow grapes for Port and dry Douro wines. The landscape is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A terraced vineyard has engineered platforms or steps cut into the slope. A steep-slope vineyard may be planted directly on a hillside without constructed terraces. Both can require extensive manual work, but their soil and water-management challenges differ.
Chef’s note: terrace describes the vineyard’s physical layout, not an appellation or quality grade. It may contribute to site character through exposure, drainage and soil conditions.
This term is one of hundreds covered in depth across OCS courses, learning paths, and 1-on-1 coaching with Chef Eric.
