The geography and climate of the AHWR has contributed to soils that are highly variable in structure and chemistry. However in general terms they can be described as a mixture of sandy loams, loams and clay loams over clay subsoils that vary in structure, although it is not unusual to find these soils combined with shale and ironstone. They are generally acidic and in some cases neutral in pH, but rarely alkaline.

Soil depth is also variable due to topography which can range from steep slopes to undulating hills, resulting in shallow stony soils to the top of hills and deep peat-like clays at the bottom of hills.

The variation in topography and hence soil type can affect vine growth and contributes greatly to wine style. Low lying areas with heavy soils provide potential for greater vigour, whereas higher well drained stony soil allow better vigour control, both of which can be utilised depending on the variety and wine style required.