Which varietal is known for expressing terroir extensively?

Pinot Noir is renowned for its ability to express terroir extensively, making it the correct choice. Terroir refers to the unique combination of environmental factors, including soil, climate, and topography, that influence the character of the wine produced from a specific region.

Pinot Noir is particularly sensitive to its growing conditions, which allows it to reflect the nuances of its terroir in the final product. This varietal often showcases differences in flavor, aroma, and overall profile that can vary dramatically from one vineyard to another, even within the same region.

Unlike some other varietals, Pinot Noir's lighter body and lower tannins enable more subtle expressions of the terroir, making it easier to perceive the specific geographic and climatic influences in each bottle. This characteristic has made it a favorite among winemakers and enthusiasts who appreciate the connection between the land and the wine.

Chardonnay can also express terroir, but the range and subtleties may not be as pronounced as in Pinot Noir. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot typically produce wines with bolder flavors that can sometimes overshadow the influence of terroir, focusing more on varietal characteristics than on the specific growing environment.