Grapes
Welcome to the enchanting realm of wine grapes, where each tiny orb holds the potential to transcend time, place, and the very essence of flavor. Wine grapes, nature’s true marvel, are more than mere fruits; they are stories waiting to be told, memories yearning to be savored, and traditions continuing from ancient civilizations to our modern glass. Here, we embark on a journey through sun-kissed vineyards and age-old cellars, delving deep into the unique characteristics, flavors, and tales of the world’s most beloved grape varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of wine grapes that gift us with nature’s most intoxicating nectar. Welcome to a world where every sip is a story.
Sangiovese
When one thinks of Italian wine, several iconic varieties might come to mind, but few resonate as deeply as Sangiovese. This grape, with its rich history, deep cultural roots, and presence in some of Italy's most iconic wines, encapsulates the spirit of the Italian...
Dolcetto
The name 'Dolcetto' may evoke images of a sugary or dessert wine, given that it translates to "little sweet one" in Italian. Yet, this grape variety and its resultant wines are anything but saccharine. Bursting with fruit and sporting a pleasantly bitter edge,...
Grenache
Sun-kissed and bursting with vigor, Grenache (known as Garnacha in Spain) is a grape variety that embodies the fiery passion of its Mediterranean roots. Oftentimes a key player in iconic blends, yet equally stunning as a solo artist, Grenache offers wine enthusiasts a...
Carignan
Carignan, a grape known for its historical dominance in old vineyards, particularly in the Mediterranean regions, is an intriguing paradox. It has been historically famed for its high yields, making it a favorite among bulk wine producers, yet, when treated with care,...
Cabernet Franc
In the grand theater of wine, where stars like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and its illustrious offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, often steal the spotlight, there exists a grape, refined and versatile, awaiting its well-deserved ovation: Cabernet Franc. This grape, while...
Barbera
Amidst the vast tapestry of Italian wines, Barbera shines not because of its lofty reputation or hard-to-find rarity, but due to its approachable charm and rich heritage. Dubbed the “people's wine,” Barbera, with its robust character and enticing flavors, has long...
Merlot
Merlot, often standing in the shadows of its illustrious cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon, holds its own with a graceful allure and an unassuming ability to capture hearts. Known for its plush texture and accommodating palate, Merlot is more than just a grape; it's an...
Shiraz or Syrah
In the pantheon of the world's great wine grapes, few have the duality and adaptability of the Syrah, also fondly known as Shiraz. With a history as deep and rich as its flavor profile, this grape offers a spectrum of expressions depending on where it's grown and how...
Pinot Noir
When it comes to wine, few grapes captivate, challenge, and charm like the Pinot Noir. Known for its elusive character and nuanced flavors, Pinot Noir has earned its title as the "Heartbreak Grape." But why such a dramatic epithet? Dive into the world of this...
Vermentino
The wine world is vast, and amidst renowned names like Chardonnay, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon, some equally fantastic yet less-known varieties beg for attention. One such underrated jewel is Vermentino – a white grape variety that calls the Mediterranean coasts its...
Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris
Technically, Pinto Grigio and Pinot Gris are the same. Pinot Grigio planting has been concentrated in northeast Italy while Pinot Gris makes its home in Alsace in France. Pinot Gris, is a French expression for light delicate and fresh and has flavours that are...
Riesling
The riesling grape is a versatile, aromatic variety with global popularity. Originating in Germany, riesling grapes are also commonly grown in France, Australia, and the United States. When young, riesling wines tend to have floral and stone fruit notes, while aging...
Muscat
Muscat is a sweet grape that comes in many forms from all over from Italy to Spain to Australia. Because of this broad variety it is hard to pin down on specific flavour or aroma for Muscat. Sometimes apple, pear or flowers can be detected in some of the lighter wines...
Chardonnay
Chardonnay comes in all different sizes and shapes and is grown all over the world. While some complain that this variety of grape is rather boring, there is a reason it is the most widely consumed grape variety in the world. Because this grape very readily will sink...
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc tends to be one of those grapes that you either love or hate. A crisp and mineral tasting wine that has it’s origins in France; the aromas of this grape have conjured a variety of adjectives. Such descriptions range from passion fruit, mint and basil...
Chenin Blanc
Origins in the Loire Valley of France, Chenin Blanc grapes have a natural high acidity as well as an uncanny ability to get along with the botrytis mold that likes to suck the water out of grapes. It is because of both of these features that Chenin Blanc grapes are so...
Semillon
Definitely a medium to full bodied grape, Semillon is a native to the Bordeaux region in France even though today the region that holds the title for having the most success with this grape is none other than the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales in Australia....
Cabernet Sauvignon
Originating in Southwest France the cabernet sauvignon variety is one of the most well known red wine producing grapes in the world. Cabernet sauvignon wines are rich, full bodied and are known to age particularly well. Popularity The popularity of cabernet sauvignon...