Which Grapes Are Used for Wine?

 

There are hundreds of grape varieties used worldwide for wine production. Below, we discuss some of the most well-known and widely used grape varieties.

 

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

One of the most famous and versatile grapes. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its full body, firm tannins, and aromas of blackcurrants, cassis, and sometimes a hint of cedarwood or tobacco.

MERLOT

Merlot is a smooth and fruity grape, producing wines with soft tannins and flavors of red fruits such as plums and cherries. It is often blended with other grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon.

PINOT NOIR

A delicate grape that yields elegant and light red wines. Pinot Noir has aromas of red berries, strawberries, and sometimes an earthy touch. It is mainly grown in Burgundy and cooler climates like Oregon and New Zealand.

SYRAH / SHIRAZ

Known as Syrah in France and Shiraz in Australia, this grape produces powerful, spicy wines with notes of black pepper, blackberries, and sometimes a smoky undertone.

CHARDONNAY

One of the most popular white grape varieties worldwide. Chardonnay can produce both fresh, fruity wines and rich, creamy wines with buttery and vanilla notes, depending on the winemaking method.

SAUVIGNON BLANC

An aromatic white grape with crisp acidity and distinct aromas of citrus, green apple, and grass. Famous in the Loire Valley and Marlborough (New Zealand).

RIESLING

A versatile white grape that can produce both dry and sweet wines. Riesling is known for its high acidity and aromas of peach, lime, and sometimes a mineral touch.

MALBEC

Originally from France but made famous in Argentina. Malbec produces deeply colored red wines with flavors of plums, blackberries, and chocolate.

TEMPRANILLO

The main grape in Spanish Rioja wines. Tempranillo has aromas of red fruits, tobacco, and leather, and ages well in oak barrels.

ZINFANDEL

A grape mainly grown in California, producing rich, fruity red wines with notes of blackberries, pepper, and sometimes a jammy sweetness.

GRENACHE / GARNACHA

A widely used grape in Southern France and Spain. Grenache wines are often fruity and spicy with notes of strawberry, cherry, and white pepper.

SANGIOVESE

The key grape of Tuscany, Italy. Sangiovese wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino have bright acidity and flavors of cherries, tomatoes, and herbs.

CHENIN BLANC

A versatile white grape from the Loire Valley, also popular in South Africa. Chenin Blanc can produce both dry and sweet wines, often with notes of honey, apple, and citrus.

VIOGNIER

An aromatic white grape mainly found in the Rhône Valley. Viognier wines have a full body and notes of apricot, peach, and floral aromas.