The grape varieties are considered the most important factor in differentiating and understanding a bottle of wine. Clients do not usually ask or buy a bottle of wine because of its origin, but they look for the variety on the label.
There are several types of wine grapes, some of them include the following;
- Tempranillo
The Tempranillo grape is originally from Spain, where it is also known as the “ink of the country” and the “noble grape”. The Tempranillo wine is dark, light, long-lived and has a mild flavour, reminiscent of cherries. It can be consumed young, although it improves with several years of aging.
- Grenache
It is a grape of late-ripening, so it needs a dry and warm climate. The wine leaves on the palate a mild and slightly spicy flavour, and the grape is frequently used in the mixture for the elaboration of rose wines. Grenache wines pair well with strong dishes, such as meat and fish with penetrating flavours, long-maturing cheeses, and powerful salads.
- Merlot
It is the so-called “chameleon variety” since it can develop different personalities, depending mainly on whether the climate of the place where the vineyard, warm or cold. The fruit is of rapid maturation, originating wines of high alcoholic gradation. It offers aromas of blackberries, red currants and fruits, and leaves a taste of plums, raisins, and mint. It is a strong wine, frequently used to start the beginners in the tasting. Suited properly with game, stews, ripened cheeses, vegetables, and sweets.
- Pinot Noir
The vineyard produces almost black clusters with very tight grapes adopting a pineapple shape. It is a grape that grows better in cold climates, and its wines are among the most elegant in the world. The vineyard demands the maximum care, but it can offer a sublime harvest in return if the optimal conditions are met. The symphony of aromas includes wet leather, grapefruit, strawberries, berries, and vanilla.
- Syrah
It is a powerful grape that communicates floral, fruity and smoky aromas. The wine is deep red, very rich in tannins, and combines beautifully with grilled meats, hunting, stews, and cheese of character. It also goes very well with chocolate.
- Zinfandel
The Zinfandel grape is somewhat unruly and depending on the climate, it can offer markedly differentiated flavours. In hot climates, it leaves a peppery taste in the mouth, while in colder regions it resembles raspberry. It is very popular for its versatility in pairing, combining well with meats in different preparation modes, pasta, pizzas and other meals made with tomato sauce.
- Cabernet Sauvignon
The Cabernet Sauvignon grape arose through a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. The new strain turned out to be very adaptable to different types of weather, as well as highly resistant to humidity and attack by insects. Cabernet Sauvignon reds feel like tannins on the palate because of their level of tannins, and they accompany pasta, lasagne, poultry, hunting, roast meats and a wide range of cheeses.
