Grape Varieties Explained

Thu May 15th 2008

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Grape Varieties Explained

All wine experts agree upon the fact that the grape variety (or blend of varieties) is, by far, the most influential factor determining the flavor and character of a wine.

As Oz Clarke, the UK's popular "no-nonsense" wine writer, once enthused, "It doesn't take much to make a wine. In fact, a grape is quite capable of doing it by itself.”

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For example, while a merlot grape will render a heavier, saltier flavor, a chardonnay tends to make for lighter, crisper wines. In fact, knowing the taste of the original grape can help you predict the character of the resulting wine, especially for wines that you have never tried.

Grape varieties will differ depending on the region in which it is grown. Specifically, the humidity of the area, as well as the soil quality of the vineyard, determines the quality of the resulting grapes. Similarly, any hurricanes or insect infections can not only wipe out an entire grape harvest, but either one may also thwart the production of a particular wine for the whole year.

Learn about the geographical information, viticulture, flavor and character of each type of grape variety. By understanding this information, you can predict different wine styles and flavor blends, as well as the unique body and vinification for each.

Start exploring and understanding grape varieties. It's the shortest route to appreciating that delicious glass of wine in your hand!

Find out all the facts about the red and white grape varieties used in the modern wine industry, simply by clicking on the various Grape Names (listed below).