Grapes
Grapes
Wine grapes are the fruit of the grape vine, small thick skinned and sugary berries, majorly from the Vitis vinifera species. There are over 10,000 varieties, specifically grown for winemaking rather than eating, with many seeds and intense flavors. The grapes provide essential sugars for fermentation, while their skins, seeds and pulp contribute acidity, flavor and tannins. Popular grape varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
See Also
Riesling
Riesling refers to both the white wine and the grape, a highly aromatic and versatile white grape variety that originated from Rhine, Germany. Riesling wine displays crisp citrus notes, green apple and peach, as well as a distinct petroleum aroma that develops with age.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is a light bodied and crisp white wine made from greyish blue grapes of the same name. It is dry, highly acidic and refreshing with lemon, green apple and pear flavors.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a dry, light bodied and refreshing white wine created from the green skinned grape variety of the same name. It is high in acidity and features vibrant flavors of green apple, lime and herb notes like grass and bell pepper.
Moscato
Moscato is a sweet and highly aromatic Italian white wine made from the ancient Muscat Blanc grape. It is low in alcohol (typically between 5-7% ABV), and displays notes of peach, apricot and orange blossom.
Sangiovese
Sangiovese is Italy's most widely planted red grape, the backbone of Tuscan wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. It is a high yielding and late ripening dark grape varietal, characterized by its tart red cherry, plum, strawberry, herbaceous and earthy notes.
Malbec
Malbec is a full bodied red wine crafted from grapes of the same name. It is deep purple in color, with velvety texture and plush dark fruit notes.
Merlot
Merlot is a beloved red wine known for its velvety texture, low tannins and approachable, fruit forward profile. It is a common grape in Bordeaux blends, also commonly used as a single varietal.
Shiraz
Shiraz is a popular, full bodied, dark skinned grape variety most famously grown in Australia, that produces bold, fruit forward wines. It is genetically identical to Syrah, which is grown in France, although it is a more opulent, jammy and spicy wine than its Old World counterpart.