Clay-limestone soil

A clay-limestone soil combines clay, which retains water and nutrients, with limestone, which provides drainage and a capillary water reserve. This pairing, widespread in Burgundy, Chablis and Bordeaux, supplies the vine with steady moisture and tends to preserve acidity and freshness in the wines. The ratio between the two components shapes the style: more clay yields broad, ample wines, while more limestone produces tighter, taut ones.