Understanding the types of grapes used in wine and their characteristics is vital for any relevant knowledge of wine. There are over 5,000 types of wine grapes, and each type gives wine its distinct flavor. Here we will discuss the most commonly known grapes and wines:
– Auxerrious grapes are used to make Malbec wines, and produce a fruity, soft and neutral wine.
– Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are known to make wines that taste like blackberries, and when aged, produce a good red wine because of the large amount of tannin.
– Chardonnay grapes make for a fruit-like wine, and often times have oaky characteristics.
– Merlot has less tannin that its red-wine counterparts, and often has soft flavors of cherry and honey.
– Pinot Noir grapes are used for red wines, but without their skins, they are sometimes used as a white ingredient in Champagne. Pinot Gris is a clone of this grape.
– Riesling grapes can vary in flavor, depending on how long they have been on the vine. The flavors vary from a dry, crisp, fruity wine to a honeyed, musky wine.
– Sauvignon Blanc, produced primarily in California and France, makes for a crisp, light white wine.
– Zinfandel grapes can produce either Red Zinfandel, when the skins are left on, or White Zinfandel when removed, and its taste ranges from fruity to spicy depending on age.
Sommeliers and wine enthusiasts around the globe always recommend trying as many different types of wines as possible. Wine fairs are happening throughout the country around this time of year. The Miami Wine Fair is fast approaching, and Linking Promotions is happy to staff hostesses for this great event for the past few years.