Introduction:
At the center of so many conversations on wine is one question: what grape variety does your favorite wine come from? As with any favorite food or beverage, our preferences are linked to the variety of grape used to produce the wine. After all, what makes a chardonnay different from a syrah or a pinot gris? It all comes down to the variety of grape used to produce the wine, and the methods and philosophies of the winemaker. In this article, we’ll explore the different grape varieties used to craft different wines. We’ll look at the history and geographic origins of each variety, plus the characteristics that make each variety unique. Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of wine grapes.
Chardonnay:
Chardonnay is one of the most popular wines produced in the world. It is a white wine grape variety with origins in Burgundy, France. It was first recorded in the region in 1545 and has since made its way around the world. Chardonnay is one of the few wines that can be produced in nearly any style, including light and crisp to rich and creamy. Chardonnay is typically characterized by medium body, moderate or high levels of acidity, intense aromas, and a flavor profile that typically hits the palate with distinct notes of citrus, green apple, and pear.
Pinot Gris:
Pinot Gris is another white wine variety that is gaining popularity worldwide. It descends from Pinot Noir and is grown in many wine regions around the world. The most memorable Pinot Gris from France comes from the Alsace region on the border of France and Germany. Pinot Gris is characterized by medium to full body, high acidity, and intense aromas. On the palate, Pinot Gris is typically expected to offer flavors of honeydew melon, peach, and pear, with nuances of spice and floral nuance.
Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon:
Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are two white wine varieties that often get lumped together due to their similarities. Both varieties originate from France, with Sauvignon Blanc hailing from the Loire Valley and Semillon originating in Bordeaux. Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are typically characterized by medium body, moderate to high levels of acidity, and intense aromatics. On the palate, Sauvignon Blanc tends to offer herbal, grassy, and sometimes herbaceous characteristics, while Semillon may present notes of citrus, apricot, and honey.
Riesling:
Riesling is a white wine variety with origins in the Rhine region of Germany. It is one of the oldest grape varieties in the world, with a history dating back to the mid-1500s. The Riesling grape is tolerant of different climates, making it a popular choice for many wine regions around the world. On the palate, Riesling is characterized by medium body, moderate to high levels of acidity, and intense aromatics. The flavor profile of Riesling varies depending on where it is grown, but generally it delivers notes of citrus, nectarine, peach, and apricot, with nuances of honey and floral notes.
Syrah:
Syrah is a red wine grape variety that has roots in the Rhone Valley of France. It is now planted in nearly every wine-growing region in the world, making it one of the most popular red wines produced. Syrah is characterized by full body, firm tannins, and intense aromatics. On the palate, Syrah is typically expected to offer notes of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry, with nuances of spice and herbal notes.
Cabernet Sauvignon:
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most recognizable red wines produced in the world. It is extensively planted in many regions, with its origin thought to be in southwestern France. Cabernet Sauvignon is characterized by full body, firm tannins, and intense aromatics. On the palate, Cabernet Sauvignon is typically expected to offer notes of blackberry, cassis, bell pepper, and spice.
Merlot:
Merlot is a red wine grape variety with origins in the Bordeaux region of France. It is one of the most popular red wines produced in the world, with a production area that spans many wine-growing regions. Merlot is typically characterized by moderate body, soft tannins, and intense aromas. On the palate, Merlot is expected to offer notes of black cherry, plum, and sometimes. Spice and herbal notes can often be tasted as well.
Conclusion:
At the center of so many conversations on wine is one question: what grape variety does your favorite wine come from? We’ve explored some of the most popular grape varieties used to craft different wines. Chardonnay and Pinot Gris come from Burgundy, France, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon from the Loire and Bordeaux regions, Riesling from Rhine, Germany, Syrah from Rhone, France, Cabernet Sauvignon from southwestern France, and Merlot from Bordeaux. Each variety offers characteristics and flavors that make them unique. Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite wines even more, knowing exactly what type of grape produced it.
Cheers!
Image Credit: Pexels