Ungrafted vines are those that are naturally planted with their own roots, nowadays most vines are grafted. Grafted vines are cut and then attached to a resistant rootstock of another type of vine.
This is done because the roots that they attach too are more resilient to diseases and pests like phylloxera. In 19th century phylloxera epidemic destroyed most of the vineyards in Europe. This makes it very difficult to find own-rooted vines in the world.
Own rooted vines are very expressive. They demonstrate the full tipicity of the grape because they are fully in contact with the terroir.
Vines attached to a rootstock. Rootstock: Root of a different vine, resilent to pests like phylloxera.
They know their environment
Old vines deliver more balanced wines because they have been adapting to their environment for many years, they already know the climate and soil of the valley.
They take care of themselves
As they have deeper roots they feed themselves from nutrients and water from deep ground, reaching maturity consistently, therefore delivering good tannins.
Quality over quantity
Old vines have many scars from pruning so the strain offers fewer bunches and smaller grapes of rich and concentrated juice.
Quality over time
Old vines have a large volume of wood on their trunk, accumulating starch reserves to deliver quality fruits, vintage after vintage.
