FW - Main grape varieties

- Presentation of the main grape varieties -

The grape variety of a wine corresponds to the variety of grapes used to make the wine. There are hundreds of different grape varieties. In this article, you will find the main varieties to know. What are the differences between white and red grapes and how can they be distinguished? 

1- The pinot noir

It is the most widely planted red grape variety in the world. It is distinguished by aromas similar to cherry, prune. Well worked, it will give a supple, powerful and intense wine with an intense aroma. The colour of the wine will be rather low in intensity.

2- The Merlot

Merlot, whose original terroir is the Bordeaux region, is also found in the Languedoc region in south-eastern France. This grape variety is ideal for blending, mixing with other varieties to round off the often rough edges of some grape varieties. It will be distinguished by a structured wine, with aromas of red fruits, such as raspberry, redcurrant or strawberry.

3- The Chardonnay

With Burgundian origin, Chardonnay is one of the most planted, drunk and appreciated grape varieties in the world. The grape is transformed according to the soil, the barrels and the climates, in order to give surprising and varied wines, such as round, straight or acid wines. It is vinified as a dry and even sweet white wine for some. As for the aromas, we will be on dried fruit flavors or exotic fruit flavors for some.

4- The Sauvignon

Sauvignon is a grape variety that occurs in several regions such as the Loire, the southwest or even the centre of France, but it is a grape variety that does not adapt to all soils.

Depending on the harvest period, it can produce dry, balanced or sweet white wines, but always with intense aromas. Sauvignon is distinguished by its floral aromas, often accompanied by citrus notes. 

5- The Grenache blanc

Imported into France during the Middle Ages, Grenache Blanc is a variety of white grapes that is used to produce natural sweet wines and old wines of golden color, fat and full-bodied, which are consumed as dessert wines. The white grenache wines are yellow-green in color and have aromas of medium intensity, with floral, fruity and herbaceous notes.

Hoping that this article was enlightening, the next one will be published next Tuesday and will deal with the most prestigious French wines.

                                   «Let's talk a little bit, let's drink well»

Maxime Desagher