The Wine Grape Mega-List

VineTutor’s Mega-list of Wine Grapes and Styles

Are you curious about the hundreds of different wines in the world, their flavors, and history? Or maybe you want to be able to have a more knowledgeable conversation about rare wines. With 150+ entries, this list has you covered.

You can use this list in several ways. Additionally, you can search the list for specific grape flavors and qualities to help you find new varietals that interest you. Use it as a study tool to improve your overall wine knowledge.

There are tens of thousands of grape varieties in the world. Universities and vineyard operations are creating new varietals all of the time. But, this list will help you stand out from the crowd.

title	Sweet	Hypersensitive	Sensitive	Tolerant	Alcohol	Alcohol Level	text	flavor 1	flavor 2	flavor 3	flavor 4	flavor 5	Sweetness	Body	Body + color	Tannin	Acid	text
Cava	no	yes	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	cava is the premier sparkling of spain. the wine uses a similar quality tier system to champagne but champions several of spains native grapes including macabeu (viura), xarel-lo, and parellada.	quince	lime	apple	flowers	nuts	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lime and flowers
Beaujolais	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a french region just south of bourgogne thats devoted to gamay-based wines. most beaujolais are simple, rustic reds, but the 10 crus offer exceptional quality.	pomegranate	blackberry	violet	earth	banana	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and earth
Melon	no	yes	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	melon or melon de bourgogne is the grape of the muscadet region of france, known for its lean, mineral, and saline driven white wines that pair famously with seafood.	lime	sea shell	apple	pear	yeast	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of sea shell and pear
Cap Classique	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	null	lemon	cherry	ginger	cream	yeast	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of cherry and cream
vouvray	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a regional wine from frances loire valley dedicated to the production of wines from the chenin blanc grape; available in an array of styles from dry to sweet, and still to sparkling.	lemon	apricot	pear	honey	flowers	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apricot and honey
Ice Wine	yes	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a sweet, late harvest wine that can only be made when grapes naturally freeze in the vineyard at a minimum -8°c/17.6°f. popular varieties include riesling, vidal, and cabernet franc.	pineapple	lemon	honeysuckle	apricot	lychee	very sweet	medium-full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lemon and apricot
Palomino Fino	no	yes	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	palomino is the prized pony in the sherry triangle; most notably jerez, where it grows on chalky soils called albariza (al-bah-ree-tha,) and is used in making sherry. a few still, dry, single-varietal wines exist and expound saltiness.	lemon	jackfruit	almond	saline	mushroom	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of jackfruit and saline
Gamay	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a fruity, floral and sometimes earthy light-bodied red that is the main variety planted in beaujolais. outside of france, gamay has a tiny but devoted following.	pomegranate	blackberry	violet	earth	flowers	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and earth
Catawba	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	null	grape	watermelon	strawberry	flowers	petrol	slightly sweet	medium body	rosé	low tannin	medium acidity	A rosé wine with low alcohol and with flavors of watermelon and flowers
Lambrusco	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a family of 8 closely related grape varieties native to italy that are made into sparkling wines, ranging from delicately colored rosés to deeply colored reds.	strawberry	blackberry	rhubarb	flowers	earth	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and flowers
Muscadine	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	muscadine (vitis rotundifolia) is a north american grape species thats naturally high in polyphenols (antioxidants). wines are exceptionally challenging to make well, given that so few are doing it.	banana	apple	lime	cranberry	rubber cement	slightly sweet	medium body	rosé	medium tannin	medium acidity	A rosé wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and cranberry
Loureiro	no	yes	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	one of the major grapes used in the wines of the northern portuguese wine region vinho verde. the wines are bright and display aromas of peach, ripe citrus and white blossom.	grapefruit	lime	lime	herbs	saline	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lime and herbs
Listán Negro	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	most notably found in spains canary islands, this dark skinned red grape is also found in peru, where it is known as negra peruana and used for the production of pisco.	cherry	strawberry	banana	spice	smoke	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and spice
Schiava	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a group of several varieties, the finest of which is called schiava gentile. wines are sweetly aromatic and light-bodied with aromas reminiscent to cotton candy and roses.	strawberry	raspberry	rose	lemon	smoke	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and lemon
Trento	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a regional sparkling wine from northern italy dedicated to making wines using the champagne method. chardonnay features prominently in these bubbly wines although youll occasionally find pinot noir, pinot blanc, or pinot meunier blended in.	citrus	apple	cherry	nuts	toast	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and nuts
Crémant	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	null	lemon	peach	cherry	nuts	toast	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts
Franciacorta	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a regional sparkling wine from northern italy. made in several styles, using the same method and grapes as champagne, with the addition of pinot blanc.	lemon	peach	cherry	nuts	toast	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts
Champagne	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	the most iconic sparkling wine in the world is a blend of grapes including chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier. the most treasured champagne wines age for a minimum of 3 years.	citrus	apple	cream	almond	toast	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	high acidity	A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and almond
Vinho verde	no	yes	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	a regional wine blend from portugal offered in both white, rosé and red styles. the most popular style is a fun, fruity white that usually has a touch of spritz.	lemonade	grapefruit	lime	apple	flowers	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and apple
Pinot Meunier	no	no	yes	no	1011.5% abv	low	this fruity red grape is mostly seen as a chief blending partner in the worlds most popular sparkling wine, champagne.						very dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of cherry and raspberry
Erbaluce	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a rarely encountered piedmontese varietal; vinified usually as a light-bodied, high acid white wine, also sometimes made into sweet wines using the passito method.	starfruit	gooseberry	pepper	melon	nuts	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and melon
Cortese	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	null	lemon	apple	melon	sea shell	nuts	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and sea shell
Falanghina	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	two unique varieties (falanghina beneventana and falanghina flegrea) define campanias signature white. wines are zesty with peach fruit, minerals, and almond notes.	lemon	citrus	peach	honey	nuts	dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and honey
Valpolicella	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the regions most famous wine, amarone della valpolicella, partially dries grapes to increase concentration in a process called appasimento. corvina is the darling grape of the valpo blend and known for its flavors of cherries and chocolate.	cherry	cinnamon	chocolate	pepper	nuts	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	low tannin	high acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cinnamon and pepper
Vinsanto	yes	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	confusingly, not italys vin santo, vinsanto is a greek sweet wine made in a passito style (sun-dried grapes) and known mostly from santorini where its made with assyrtiko.	apricot	cherry	bell pepper	caramel	orange peel	very sweet	full body	dessert	medium tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cherry and caramel
Cinsault	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	one of the minor grapes found in rhône blends and provençal rosés; cinsault delivers fresh, punchy reds that are just as floral as they are fruity.	raspberry	currant	cherry	flowers	tea	dry	medium-light body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and flowers
Chablis	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a wine region in northern burgundy that is as close to champagne as it is to burgundy, producing a leaner style of chardonnay generally with less oak use.	quince	starfruit	lime	flowers	chalk	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of starfruit and flowers
Arinto	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an indigenous grape to portugal that produces exceptional, age-worthy whites with the ability to evolve over 7 or more years; revealing flavors of beeswax and nuts.	lemon	grapefruit	nuts	beeswax	flowers	very dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and beeswax
Cabernet Franc	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	cabernet franc is the parent grape of both merlot and cabernet sauvignon. complex reds result, with aromas of raspberry, bramble, and bell pepper (pyrazines).	strawberry	raspberry	green pepper	gravel	pepper	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and gravel
St. Laurent	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	likely originating in austria, this small berried vine yields cherry flavoured wines that have been compared to a deeper coloured, beefier version of pinot noir.	raspberry	blackberry	tobacco	spice	chocolate	dry	medium body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice
Zweigelt	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	austrias most planted red wine grape and is a cross between blaufränkisch and st. laurent (tastes like pinot noir). resulting wines are bright, tart, and fruity.	cherry	raspberry	pepper	licorice	chocolate	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and licorice
Torrontés	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	argentinas very own white is actually a group of 3 varieties that are offspring of muscat of alexandria. of the 3 varieties torrontés riojano is considered the best.	lemon	peach	rose	flowers	orange	dry	medium-light body	aromatic white	low tannin	medium acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and flowers
Chianti	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the world-renowned tuscan, sangiovese-based wine was originally sold in straw-wrapped bottles called fiascos. chianti wines have many classifications by region and aging regime.	cherry	plum	tomato	leather	clay	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of plum and leather
Frappato	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a rare, fruity find from sicily, frappato bursts with aromas of sweet red berries and incense spice. its sometimes blended with nero davola to add complexity.	strawberry	pomegranate	pepper	tobacco	clay	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and tobacco
Fernão Pires	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a top white grape in portugal known in some areas as maria gomez. wines deliver high intensity floral aromas and medium body. more recently its been successfully blended with viognier.	lime	peach	orange	flowers	spiced plum	dry	medium-light body	aromatic white	low tannin	low acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and flowers
Bobal	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	this under-the-radar grape happens to be the 2nd most planted red wine in spain. wines are loved for their fruity flavors, soft tannins, and velvety finish.	blackberry	pomegranate	licorice	tea	chocolate	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and tea
Prosecco	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	italys most popular sparkling wine is created mostly in veneto and friuli-venezia giulia. the best prosecco wines come from the smaller sub-region of valdobiaddene.		melon	pear	lager	cream	dry	light body	sparkling	low tannin	medium acidity	A sparkling wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and lager
Nerello Mascalese	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a rare red sicilian grape producing fine light to medium-bodied red wines reminiscent of pinot noir. the best examples are found growing on the volcanic soils of mount etna.	cherry	orange	herbs	spice	gravel	very dry	medium-light body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of orange and spice
Friulano	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	officially called sauvignonasse, this lean, dry, herbal white is often mistaken for sauvignon blanc. youll find it in abundance in northeastern italy in friuli-venezia giulia.	grapefruit	pear	peach	herbs	gravel	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pear and herbs
Grüner Veltliner	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	austrias most important wine is produced in a myriad of styles, the most popular of which are lean, herbaceous, and peppery wines with mouth-watering acidity.	starfruit	gooseberry	green bean	pepper	gravel	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and pepper
Vermentino	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	vermentino is an important white of sardinia and tuscany where producers offer both oaked and unoaked styles. its also one of the top white blending grapes included in provence rosé (labeled as rolle).	lime	grapefruit	green apple	nuts	flowers	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and nuts
Rkatsiteli	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a popular dry white wine in eastern europe all the way to georgia where producers use ancient winemaking techniques to produce intensely flavored oxidative wines.	pineapple	lime	resin	herbs	fennel	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and herbs
Sancerre	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a regional wine from the loire valley of central france. wines are mostly sauvignon blanc (and very rarely: pinot noir). sauvignon blanc is exceptionally lean and textured from sancerres chalky soils.	gooseberry	grapefruit	melon	hay	flint	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and hay
Silvaner	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an undervalued white wine primarily found in germany. silvaner wines deliver boisterous peach-like fruit contrasted by subtle herbal flavors. fans of pinot gris will delight.	peach	passion fruit	orange	thyme	flint	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of passion fruit and thyme
Müller-Thurgau	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a cross between riesling and madeleine royal, the vines are known to be hyper-productive and thus, most wines are somewhat boring. that said, quality minded wineries offer müller-thurgau with the same complexity as fine riesling.	peach	rose	lemon	lime	flint	slightly sweet	light body	aromatic white	low tannin	medium acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of rose and lime
Aligoté	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	aligoté is burgundys other white grape, more rarely encountered than chardonnay; yielding light, citrusy wines. it is also the traditional base ingredient for the kir cocktail.	apple	peach	flowers	smoke	herbs	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and smoke
Sauternais	yes	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a group of rare dessert wines from bordeaux made with sémillon, sauvignon blanc, and muscadelle grapes infected with a special kind of rot called botrytis cinerea that concentrates the grape sugars.	marmalade	apricot	quince	honey	ginger	very sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apricot and honey
Graevina	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	graevina, a.k.a. welschriesling, is the most widely planted white grape in croatia, but confusingly has no link to german riesling. wines are typically neutral and easy drinking.	apple	citrus	pineapple	mango	ginger	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and mango
Bonarda	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	not the same grape as bonarda from italy, this bonarda (aka charbono or douce noir) grows alongside malbec in argentina where it produces equally fruity, smooth red wines.	plum	cherry	cardamom	fig	graphite	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cherry and fig
viura	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the most important white grape of rioja where wines evolve over 10 or more years. in catalonia, viura is called macabeo and is the primary blending grape in cava sparkling wines.	honeydew	lime	lemongrass	tarragon	nuts	very dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and tarragon
Pinot Noir	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	pinot noir is the worlds most popular light-bodied red wine. its loved for its red fruit, flower, and spice aromas that are accentuated by a long, smooth finish.	cherry	raspberry	mushroom	vanilla	flowers	dry	medium body	light-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and vanilla
Orange Wine	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the name is a bit of a misnomer because this wine isnt made with oranges, but rather white grapes that have been fermented on their skins, much like red wine.	bruised	jackfruit	linseed oil	juniper	honey	very dry	medium-full body	full-bodied white	medium tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of jackfruit and juniper
Catarratto	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	null	lemon	apple	peach	flowers	honey	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and flowers
Chenin Blanc	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	its hard not to love chenin blanc; given its diversity of styles from lean, dry whites and aromatic sparklers, to sweet golden nectars as well as rich brandies.	quince	apple	pear	chamomile	honey	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and chamomile
Vidal	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a french hybrid grape, known principally for its use in ice wine making in canada. the vines are ideal for ice wine, as they are incredibly hardy and suited to harsh winters.	currant	pineapple	melon	lychee	flowers	slightly sweet	medium body	aromatic white	low tannin	high acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and lychee
White Bordeaux	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a white blend thats dominated by sémillon and sauvignon blanc, along with other grape varieties that are native to the bordeaux region of france.	grapefruit	gooseberry	lemon	herbs	lemongrass	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and herbs
Tokaji Aszú	yes	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a notable hungarian sweet wine made mostly of furmint grapes that are affected by a special rot called botrytis cinerea. the rot concentrates the grapes sugars and adds distinct aromas of ginger and saffron.	tangerine	apricot	honey	ginger	marzipan	very sweet	medium body	dessert	low tannin	high acidity	A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apricot and ginger
Montepulciano	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a popular italian red grape found mostly labeled as montepulciano dabruzzo. the best examples deliver complex black fruit flavors and a smoky-sweet finish.	plum	blackberry	herbs	spice	mesquite	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice
Arneis	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	arneis (little rascal) owes its existence, in part, from the efforts of one winemaker, alfredo currado of the vietti family, who brought it back from scarcity.	peach	apple	honey	nuts	nutmeg	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and nuts
Agiorgitiko	no	no	yes	yes	11.513.5% abv	medium	the most widely planted red grape of greece offers a wide range of styles, from rosé to red. the most exceptional agiorgitiko wines are the full-bodied reds from nemea.	raspberry	blackberry	plum	pepper	nutmeg	very dry	medium-full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper
Sauvignon Blanc	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a popular and unmistakable white thats loved for its green herbal flavors and sky high acidity. sauvignon blanc grows nearly everywhere and is produced in a variety of methods resulting in a wide that range from lean to bountiful.	gooseberry	melon	grapefruit	white peach	passion fruit	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and white peach
Furmint	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	furmint is one of the most important hungarian varieties famously used in tokaji aszú dessert wines, but also available as a dry wine in a similar in style to riesling.	lemon	apple	ginger	smoke	green pepper	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and smoke
Fiano	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a fascinating southern italian white with a richer, almost waxy texture thats known to be age worthy. its easy to find labeled as fiano di avellino from campania.	melon	pear	hazelnut	orange	pine	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pear and orange
Xarel-lo	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	one of the three main grapes used in the production of sparkling cava (along with parellada and macabeo). xarel-lo is noted to complement the richness of macabeo (aka viura) with high acidity.	lemon	peach	lime	ginger	nuts	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and ginger
Encruzado	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a rare portuguese white wine with exceptional quality and ability to be aged in oak, giving it a similar taste to white burgundy; it shows a distinct, slatey minerality.	grapefruit	lemon	hazelnut	ginger	resin	very dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and ginger
Savatiano	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	greeces most planted variety is starting to make a comeback as more winemakers focus on quality producing richer, full-bodied white wines reminiscent of chardonnay.	apple	melon	lime	lemon	resin	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and lemon
Cserszegi F?szeres	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	null	peach	elderflower	grape	lychee	rose	slightly sweet	medium-light body	aromatic white	low tannin	medium acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of elderflower and lychee
Airén	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	spains most widely planted grape is primarily used for brandy, save for a few producers who have revitalized the drought-resistant old bush vines for winemaking.	apple	pineapple	grapefruit	banana	rose	dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and banana
País	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the chilean name for the spanish grape, listán prieto. its been used mostly for bulk rosé until recently, where quality-minded, natural winemakers are launching tart, high-tannin reds made from país old vines.	cherry	grape	anise	meat	herbs	very dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	low acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grape and meat
Picpoul	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a very old french white wine variety thats recently become increasingly popular for its lip-zapping white wines that pair perfectly with shellfish and fried foods.	apple	citrus	lemon	herbs	saline	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and herbs
Vernaccia di San Gimignano	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	hailing from tuscany, this white grape is also the varietal in the tuscan regional wine with the same name. wines are bright, citrusy and crisp, and lend a slight bitter note on the finish.	apple	peach	lemon	nuts	saline	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts
Verdicchio	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a fascinating white found primarily in the marche of italy where verdicchio wines are loved for their sweet, peachy aromatics and somewhat oily texture.	peach	lemon	nuts	oil	saline	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and oil
Albariño	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	one of the most delightfully refreshing whites from the iberian peninsula, mostly found growing in cooler areas close to the sea where it attains briny flavours.	lemon	grapefruit	honeydew	orange	saline	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and orange
Grillo	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	at home in sicily; the table wines that result are full in body, with a floral, herbal aroma. a major component of sicilys fortified flagship wine: marsala.	grapefruit	citrus	thyme	minerals	saline	very dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and minerals
Garganega	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an important italian white thats loved for its lean, dry style that gains rich tangerine and toasted almond notes as it ages. garganega is the main grape of soave (swah-vay.)	peach	melon	tangerine	herbs	saline	dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and herbs
Sémillon	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an important white grape of bordeaux, including the prized dessert wine, sauternes. wines can be surprisingly rich and when oaked, can taste similar to chardonnay.	lemon	beeswax	peach	flowers	saline	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of beeswax and flowers
Grechetto	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	the primary grape in italys well-known orvieto wines from umbria and lazio. this white fuller in body and if you close your eyes, it will remind you of rosé!	peach	melon	strawberry	flowers	sea shell	very dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and flowers
Refosco	no	no	yes	yes	11.513.5% abv	medium	a family of closely related varieties found northern italy and neighboring slovenia with genetic links to the grapes of valpolicella. wines range in body and style but usually feature deep color and elevated acidity.	cherry	dried herbs	espresso	spice	smoke	dry	medium-full body	full-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of dried herbs and spice
Chasselas	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a swiss variety which yields fairly neutral wines that tend to showcase their origin more so than other grapes, based on the terroir in which they grow.	apple	apple	melon	mint	smoke	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and mint
Baga	no	no	yes	yes	11.513.5% abv	medium	even though a large proportion of baga is used in portugals leading value wine, mateus rosé, the grape can produce age-worthy reds and complex sparkling rosé.	blackberry	currant	cherry	cocoa	tar	dry	medium-full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	high acidity	A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and cocoa
Ribolla Gialla	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an ancient white variety from northern italy, bordering slovenia. rarely seen elsewhere, wines are typically light in body and offer fruity, floral aromas, as well as bright acidity.	apple	tangerine	citrus	beeswax	herbs	dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of tangerine and beeswax
Gaglioppo	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a delicious, rare find from calabria that is the child grape of sangiovese and sibling to sicilys nerello mascalese. wines often deliver dusty fruit flavors.	raspberry	currant	clay	leather	tobacco	very dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and leather
Carménère	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	null	raspberry	green pepper	plum	spice	vanilla	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of green pepper and spice
Dolcetto	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	in piedmont, dolcettos home, the name means little sweet one. funny enough, wines are generally tart with loads black fruit flavors and occasionally aggressive tannins.	black plum	blackberry	cocoa	pepper	flowers	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	low acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper
Rosé	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	rosé was once only thought of as fruity and cloying; these dry and mineral driven pink wines (that contain a plethora of grapes) have proven that rosé can be serious. seriously delicious.	strawberry	melon	rose	celery	melon	dry	light body	rosé	low tannin	medium acidity	A rosé wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and celery
Verdejo	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	an herbaceous white wine that grows almost exclusively in the rueda region of spain. not to be confused with verdelho, a portuguese grape used in primarily in madeira.	lime	melon	grapefruit	fennel	peach	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and fennel
Moschofilero	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	a richly aromatic white wine that hails from the small region of mantíneia, close to tripoli in peloponnese, greece.						slightly sweet	medium-light body	aromatic white	low tannin	medium acidity	A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and orange blossom
Colombard	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	this fairly neutral grape, once preferred solely for brandy production (notably armagnac) is planted globally. generally blended with other grapes, easy-drinking table wines result.						dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and melon
Pinot Gris	no	yes	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	pinot gris (aka pinot grigio) is a pinkish grape mutation of pinot noir. its famously known for zesty white wines, but can also be used for rosé. look to northern italy, oregon, and alsace for benchmark examples.						dry	medium-light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and lemon
Trebbiano Toscano	no	no	yes	no	11.513.5% abv	medium	one of the top wine grapes of italy and france (where its called ugni blanc). that said, youd never realize it because trebbiano is mostly used in brandy and balsamic vinegar production!						dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and stone
Bandol	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	bandol is a tiny appellation within provence, france that is most famous for its rich, peppery, and meaty red wines made almost exclusively with mourvèdre.	blackberry	chocolate	game	pepper	spiced plum	very dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of chocolate and pepper
Marsanne	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a primary blending grape in white rhône blends that also include roussanne, grenache blanc and sometimes viognier. a great alternative to chardonnay.	quince	orange	apricot	acacia	beeswax	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of orange and acacia
Sagrantino	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	a rare, central-italian red found mostly in umbria. its recently been noted to contain some of the highest polyphenol (antioxidants) levels of of any red wine.	plum	licorice	tea	olive	pepper	very dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of licorice and olive
Blaufränkisch	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	rich black fruit is contrasted by peppery flavors and boisterous acidity in this food-friendly austrian red. blaufränkisch is a parent grape of both gamay and zweigelt.	blackberry	cherry	chocolate	allspice	pepper	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and allspice
Barbera	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	barolo is what everyone talks about from piedmont, but barbera is what everyone drinks! this everyday red can be found in vineyards around the world.	cherry	licorice	blackberry	herbs	pepper	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	high acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of licorice and herbs
Verdelho	no	yes	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	this portuguese native is one of the four key grapes used in the production of madeira; it is found little elsewhere, though select australian producers are making quality wines.	gooseberry	pineapple	ginger	melon	nuts	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and melon
White Rhône	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	the rare white wines of the rhône valley offer a terrific alternative for chardonnay lovers. wines are typically a blend of marsanne and roussanne with a little viognier and grenache blanc thrown in.	lemon	apricot	beeswax	orange	yeast	dry	medium-light body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of apricot and orange
Roussanne	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	an intriguing, rare full-bodied white found mostly in southern france where its blended into white blends with grenache blanc, marsanne and sometimes viognier.	lemon	apricot	beeswax	chamomile	yeast	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of apricot and chamomile
Chardonnay	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	one of the worlds most popular grapes, chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling blanc de blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak.	apple	starfruit	pineapple	vanilla	butter	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of starfruit and vanilla
Nero dAvola	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	sicilys most important red wine variety is often likened to cabernet sauvignon due to its full-bodied style and flavors of black cherry and tobacco.	cherry	plum	licorice	tobacco	pepper	dry	medium-full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and tobacco
Norton	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	an american hybrid of vitis vinifera and vitis aestivalis that shows excellent promise for winemaking in americas midwest. wines are often rich with both fruity and savory flavors.	currant	cherry	dill	pepper	chocolate	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and pepper
Brunello di Montalcino	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	brunello di montalcino is of italys top regional red wines, first labeled as such in 1865 by biondi-santi. wines are made with a special clone of sangiovese.	cherry	plum	leather	herbs	clay	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and herbs
Nebbiolo	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	one of italys most important red wine varieties made famous by the barolo region of piedmont where wines offer delicate aromas accompanied by strong tannins.	cherry	rose	leather	anise	clay	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of rose and anise
Malbec	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	argentinas most important variety came by way of france, where its commonly called côt (sounds like coat). wines are loved for their rich, dark fruit flavors and smooth chocolatey finish.	plum	blackberry	vanilla	tobacco	chocolate	dry	full body	full-bodied red	medium tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and tobacco
Mencía	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a red variety from the iberian peninsula (spain and portugal) thats quickly developing a following. its loved for its heady aromatics and potential to age.	cherry	pomegranate	licorice	blackberry	gravel	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and blackberry
Pinot Blanc	no	yes	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	pinot blanc is the white grape mutation of pinot noir. its found mostly in germany and northern italy where wines are refreshing, peachy, and dry.	pear	peach	nuts	lemon	gravel	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of peach and lemon
Concord	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	an american grape of the vitis labrusca species from concord, massachusetts; it is the most planted grape in new york, but used more for juice and flavoring than winemaking.	grape	plum sauce	musk	earth	spice	slightly sweet	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum sauce and earth
Carignan	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	null	cranberry	raspberry	tobacco	spice	meat	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and spice
Priorat	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a spanish regional wine blend known largely for its full, dusty red wines made primarily from grenache and carignan. the best age a minimum of five years before release and some include merlot and cabernet sauvignon for additional complexity.	cherry	plum	gravel	licorice	chocolate	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and licorice
Tempranillo	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	spains top red wine, made famous by rioja, where wines are classified (in part) by how long they age in oak. whats amazing, is a well-made tempranillo ages for over 20 years.	cherry	fig	cedar	tobacco	herbs	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of fig and tobacco
Red Bordeaux	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	a red blend thats dominated by cabernet sauvignon and merlot, along with several other grape varieties native to the bordeaux region of france.	currant	cherry	graphite	chocolate	herbs	very dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and chocolate
Negroamaro	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a red wine that grows in abundance in puglia but almost nowhere else; producing wines with rich black fruit flavors with a distinct finish of dried herbs.	cherry	plum	blackberry	prune	herbs	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and prune
Gewürztraminer	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	treasured for its intense floral aromas, gewürztraminer has thrived for centuries around germany. quality examples are ageworthy, but most are best enjoyed in their youth to preserve acidity.	lychee	rose	grapefruit	tangerine	ginger	slightly sweet	medium body	aromatic white	low tannin	low acidity	A aromatic white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of rose and tangerine
Cabernet Sauvignon	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	the worlds most popular red wine grape is a natural cross between cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc from bordeaux, france. cabernet sauvignon is loved for its high concentration and age worthiness.	cherry	currant	cedar	spice	graphite	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of currant and spice
Corvina	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	null	cherry	cinnamon	chocolate	pepper	nuts	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cinnamon and pepper
Syrah	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	a rich, powerful, and sometimes meaty red wine that originated in the rhône valley of france. syrah is the most planted grape of australia where they call it shiraz.	blueberry	plum	chocolate	tobacco	pepper	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and tobacco
Red Rhône	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	gsm stands for grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre three important grapes grown in the côtes du rhône region of france. today, this blend is produced throughout the world and is loved for its complex red fruit flavors and age-worthy potential.	raspberry	blackberry	rosemary	spice	flowers	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice
Barolo	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	piedmonts most famous red wine is made with 100% nebbiolo grapes. its translucent brick-red color, deceptively light body, and floral aromas contrast its dense tannin structure.	raspberry	cherry	rose	tar	licorice	very dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	high acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and tar
Castelão	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	null	currant	plum	strawberry	meat	mocha	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and meat
Red Rioja	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	spains most famous regional wine featuring tempranillo grapes. wines are known for their savory, dusty flavors and ability to age. rioja is one of few european winemaking zones that enlists the use of american oak barrels.	cherry	plum	dill	vanilla	leather	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and vanilla
Touriga Franca	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a northern portuguese native, used mainly in port wine production, as well as blended table wines of the dão. wines are deep in colour, with floral, red-fruit flavours.	blackberry	cherry	graphite	rose	pepper	dry	medium body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and rose
Mourvèdre	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	a deeply bold, smoky red wine found in abundance in central spain and southern france (where its known as mourvèdre). monastrell is the m in the rhône / gsm blend.	blackberry	pepper	cocoa	tobacco	meat	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pepper and tobacco
Viognier	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a rich, oily white wine that originated in the northern rhône and is rapidly growing in popularity in california, australia, and beyond. wines are often age in oak to deliver chardonnay-like richness.	tangerine	peach	mango	honeysuckle	rose	dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of peach and honeysuckle
Petit verdot	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	considered a minor blending grape in bordeaux, petit verdot has shown promise as a single-varietal wine in warmer climates where it makes smooth full-bodied reds.	cherry	plum	violet	lilac	herbs	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and lilac
Godello	no	yes	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	a rare grape with great potential from the iberian peninsula delivers mouth-watering flavors of briny grapefruit. the best examples offer smoky minerality.	grapefruit	lemon	quince	gravel	saline	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of lemon and gravel
Assyrtiko	no	yes	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	native to santorini, assyrtiko is a rare grape in terms of vineyard area, but is quickly picking up acreage throughout greece. noted for its texture, acidity, and minerality.	lime	passion fruit	beeswax	flint	saline	very dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of passion fruit and flint
Malvasia Fina	yes	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	malvasia fina, or boal, as it is known on the island of madeira is one of the four main grapes used in madeira production. in table wines, full aromatics and alcohol are of note.	peach	flowers	nuts	herbs	sea shell	sweet	medium-light body	dessert	low tannin	low acidity	A dessert wine with high alcohol and with flavors of flowers and herbs
Aglianico	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	if nebbiolo is king of northern italy, then aglianico is king of the south. a wine with incredible quality, and a unique savory flavor thats best enjoyed aged.	pepper	cherry	smoke	game	plum	very dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and game
Sangiovese	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	italys most planted wine variety and the pride of the tuscan regional wine, chianti. sangiovese is a sensitive grape that takes on different stylistic expressions based on where it grows.	cherry	tomato	herbs	coffee	balsamic	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of tomato and coffee
Alicante Bouschet	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	a rare type of grape that has both red skins and red flesh, known as a teinturier. created when french botanist, henri bouschet, crossed grenache with petit bouschet.	cherry	blackberry	black	pepper	tobacco	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper
Grenache Blanc	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	grenache blanc is a color mutation of grenache producing full-bodied white wines that are sometimes aged in oak to delivery toasty, creamy, dill-like flavors.	plum	pear	lemon	flowers	toast	very dry	medium body	full-bodied white	low tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pear and flowers
Xinomavro	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	the most important grape of naoussa, greece where wine enthusiasts often cite the xinomavros similarities to the nebbiolo grape and the collector-worthy wines of barolo.	raspberry	plum	anise	spice	tobacco	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	high acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and spice
Vin Santo	yes	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	vin santo or holy wine is a rare dessert wine found mostly in tuscany. the grapes are first dried on straw mats to concentrate the sugars and can take as long as 4 years to ferment.	perfume	fig	raisin	nuts	caramel	very sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	high acidity	A dessert wine with high alcohol and with flavors of fig and nuts
Merlot	no	no	yes	no	13.515% abv	high	merlot is loved for its boisterous black cherry flavors, supple tannins, and chocolatey finish. on the high end, its often mistaken with cabernet sauvignon and commonly blended with it.	cherry	plum	chocolate	hers	vanilla	very dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and hers
Tannat	no	no	yes	yes	13.515% abv	high	tannat is the most planted variety of uruguay where it was studied to determine that it contains some of the highest polyphenols (antioxidants) of all red wines.						dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of smoke and plum
Sherry	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	the top fortified wine of spain made primarily with palomino grapes and extended oxidative aging. its available in a range of styles of bone dry to very sweet.	jackfruit	saline	lemon	nuts	nuts	slightly sweet	medium-light body	dessert	low tannin	high acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of saline and nuts
Grenache	no	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	grenache (aka garnacha) produces rich, flavorful red wines and deep, ruby-tinted rosé. the french have championed this grape in the southern rhône valley but its original home is spain!	strawberry	plum	leather	herbs	orange	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	medium tannin	medium acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of plum and herbs
Maury	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	an appellation for the production of vin doux naturel (fortified wine) in the southern roussillon of france. wines must be made with a minimum 75% grenache noir, among others.	strawberry	prune	earth	ginger	caramel	very sweet	full body	dessert	high tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of prune and ginger
Port	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	portugals flagship; an aged, sweet fortified wine that comes in a wide range of styles, largely based on ageing techniques. commonly seen styles include ruby and tawny.	plum	cherry	chocolate	raisin	cinnamon	very sweet	full body	dessert	high tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and raisin
Banyuls	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	one of frances most important sweet, fortified vin doux naturel wines made primarily of grenache and/or grenache blanc grapes with 6 official styles.	strawberry	prunes	earth	chocolate	mint	very sweet	full body	dessert	high tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of prunes and chocolate
Madeira	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	oxidized, fortified dessert wines from the island of madeira ranging in style from slightly sweet to sweet. wines are incredibly stable and are known to age over 100 years.	caramel	nuts	peach	nuts	orange	sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of nuts and nuts
Pinotage	no	no	yes	yes	over 15% abv	very high	south africas own hearty red was created in 1925 and is a cross between cinsault and pinot noir. oddly enough, pinotage is bolder than both its progenitors.	cherry	blackberry	fig	menthol	meat	dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	low acidity	A full-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and menthol
Zinfandel	no	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	a fruit-forward-yet-bold red thats loved for its red fruit flavors and smoky exotic spice notes. originally from croatia and related to top croatian grape, plavic mali.	blackberry	strawberry	peach	cinnamon	tobacco	dry	medium-full body	medium-bodied red	high tannin	low acidity	A medium-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and cinnamon
Marsala	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	marsala is a fortified wine from sicily commonly used in cooking to create rich, caramelized sauces but can also make fine sipping wines, ranging from dry to sweet.	apricot	vanilla	tamarind	caramel	tobacco	sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of vanilla and caramel
Vin Jaune	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	a rare, oxidized french white with bizarrely unique aromas. occassionally, youll find it used in cooking where it adds an indescrible nutty taste to classic french dishes.	turpentine	pear	rose	fennel	caramel	dry	medium-full body	dessert	medium tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of pear and fennel
White Port	yes	no	yes	no	over 15% abv	very high	the most important fortified sweet wine of portugal is made in a range of styles including white, rosé, red and tawny, each with a unique taste profile.	spiced pear	quince	almond	honey	vanilla	very sweet	medium-full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of quince and honey
Touriga Nacional	no	no	yes	yes	over 15% abv	very high	an increasingly important red from portugal that was originally used in port wines and is now featured in single varietal wines and red blends from the douro valley.						dry	full body	full-bodied red	high tannin	medium acidity	A full-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of flowers and blueberries
Moscatel de Setúbal	yes	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	a rich and honeyed fortified dessert wine made primarily with muscat of alexandria grapes grown on the setúbal peninsula in southern portugal.	orange	grape	apricot	honey	caramel	very sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of grape and honey
Pedro Ximénez	yes	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	the andalucían grapes responsible for some of the worlds sweetest fortified wines are often dried in the sun to further concentrate the sugars. px sherry on your pancakes, anyone?	toffee	fig	walnut	lemon	coffee	very sweet	full body	dessert	low tannin	low acidity	A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of fig and lemon
Brachetto	no	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	brachetto dacqui is a frizzante (semi-sparkling) sweet red wine from piedmont thats known for its candied and floral aromatics.	strawberry	orange	currant	apricot	cream	sweet	medium-light body	light-bodied red	low tannin	medium acidity	A light-bodied red wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of orange and apricot
Muscat Blanc	no	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	an ancient aromatic white variety originally from greece thats available in many styles, from dry to sweet to still, sparkling, and fortified.	orange	lemon	orange	pear	flowers	slightly sweet	light body	aromatic white	low tannin	medium acidity	A aromatic white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of lemon and pear
Riesling	no	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	an aromatic white variety that can produce white wines ranging in style from very dry to very sweet. germany is the worlds most important producer of riesling.	lime	apple	beeswax	flowers	petrol	slightly sweet	light body	aromatic white	low tannin	high acidity	A aromatic white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of apple and flowers
Txakoli	no	yes	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	a bone dry, slightly spritzy wine from spains basque country, produced in three different regions from a host of grapes, most importantly hondarrabi zuri.	lime	strawberry	peony	herbs	saline	dry	light body	light-bodied white	low tannin	high acidity	A light-bodied white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and herbs
Muscat of Alexandria	yes	no	yes	no	under 10% abv	very low	another important muscat variety used primarily for dessert wines that delivers slightly more mandarin orange, orange zest and sweet rose notes than muscat blanc.	orange	honey	lychee	peach	flowers	sweet	medium body	dessert	low tannin	medium acidity	A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of honey and peach

title

Sweet

Hypersensitive

Sensitive

Tolerant

Alcohol

Alcohol Level

text

flavor 1

flavor 2

flavor 3

flavor 4

flavor 5

Sweetness

Body

Body + color

Tannin

Acid

text

Cava

yes

1011.5% abv

low

cava is the premier sparkling of spain. the wine uses a similar quality tier system to champagne but champions several of spains native grapes including macabeu (viura), xarel-lo, and parellada.

quince

lime

apple

flowers

nuts

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lime and flowers

Beaujolais

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a french region just south of bourgogne thats devoted to gamay-based wines. most beaujolais are simple, rustic reds, but the 10 crus offer exceptional quality.

pomegranate

blackberry

violet

earth

banana

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and earth

Melon

yes

1011.5% abv

low

melon or melon de bourgogne is the grape of the muscadet region of france, known for its lean, mineral, and saline driven white wines that pair famously with seafood.

lime

sea shell

apple

pear

yeast

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of sea shell and pear

Cap Classique

yes

1011.5% abv

low

null

lemon

cherry

ginger

cream

yeast

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of cherry and cream

vouvray

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a regional wine from frances loire valley dedicated to the production of wines from the chenin blanc grape; available in an array of styles from dry to sweet, and still to sparkling.

lemon

apricot

pear

honey

flowers

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apricot and honey

Ice Wine

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a sweet, late harvest wine that can only be made when grapes naturally freeze in the vineyard at a minimum -8°c/17.6°f. popular varieties include riesling, vidal, and cabernet franc.

pineapple

lemon

honeysuckle

apricot

lychee

very sweet

medium-full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lemon and apricot

Palomino Fino

yes

1011.5% abv

low

palomino is the prized pony in the sherry triangle; most notably jerez, where it grows on chalky soils called albariza (al-bah-ree-tha,) and is used in making sherry. a few still, dry, single-varietal wines exist and expound saltiness.

lemon

jackfruit

almond

saline

mushroom

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of jackfruit and saline

Gamay

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a fruity, floral and sometimes earthy light-bodied red that is the main variety planted in beaujolais. outside of france, gamay has a tiny but devoted following.

pomegranate

blackberry

violet

earth

flowers

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and earth

Catawba

yes

1011.5% abv

low

null

grape

watermelon

strawberry

flowers

petrol

slightly sweet

medium body

rosé

low tannin

medium acidity

A rosé wine with low alcohol and with flavors of watermelon and flowers

Lambrusco

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a family of 8 closely related grape varieties native to italy that are made into sparkling wines, ranging from delicately colored rosés to deeply colored reds.

strawberry

blackberry

rhubarb

flowers

earth

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and flowers

Muscadine

yes

1011.5% abv

low

muscadine (vitis rotundifolia) is a north american grape species thats naturally high in polyphenols (antioxidants). wines are exceptionally challenging to make well, given that so few are doing it.

banana

apple

lime

cranberry

rubber cement

slightly sweet

medium body

rosé

medium tannin

medium acidity

A rosé wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and cranberry

Loureiro

yes

1011.5% abv

low

one of the major grapes used in the wines of the northern portuguese wine region vinho verde. the wines are bright and display aromas of peach, ripe citrus and white blossom.

grapefruit

lime

herbs

saline

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of lime and herbs

Listán Negro

yes

1011.5% abv

low

most notably found in spains canary islands, this dark skinned red grape is also found in peru, where it is known as negra peruana and used for the production of pisco.

cherry

strawberry

banana

spice

smoke

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and spice

Schiava

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a group of several varieties, the finest of which is called schiava gentile. wines are sweetly aromatic and light-bodied with aromas reminiscent to cotton candy and roses.

strawberry

raspberry

rose

lemon

smoke

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and lemon

Trento

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a regional sparkling wine from northern italy dedicated to making wines using the champagne method. chardonnay features prominently in these bubbly wines although youll occasionally find pinot noir, pinot blanc, or pinot meunier blended in.

citrus

apple

cherry

nuts

toast

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and nuts

Crémant

yes

1011.5% abv

low

null

lemon

peach

cherry

nuts

toast

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts

Franciacorta

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a regional sparkling wine from northern italy. made in several styles, using the same method and grapes as champagne, with the addition of pinot blanc.

lemon

peach

cherry

nuts

toast

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts

Champagne

yes

1011.5% abv

low

the most iconic sparkling wine in the world is a blend of grapes including chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier. the most treasured champagne wines age for a minimum of 3 years.

citrus

apple

cream

almond

toast

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

high acidity

A sparkling wine with low alcohol and with flavors of apple and almond

Vinho verde

yes

1011.5% abv

low

a regional wine blend from portugal offered in both white, rosé and red styles. the most popular style is a fun, fruity white that usually has a touch of spritz.

lemonade

grapefruit

lime

apple

flowers

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with low alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and apple

Pinot Meunier

yes

1011.5% abv

low

this fruity red grape is mostly seen as a chief blending partner in the worlds most popular sparkling wine, champagne.

very dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with low alcohol and with flavors of cherry and raspberry

Erbaluce

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a rarely encountered piedmontese varietal; vinified usually as a light-bodied, high acid white wine, also sometimes made into sweet wines using the passito method.

starfruit

gooseberry

pepper

melon

nuts

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and melon

Cortese

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

null

lemon

apple

melon

sea shell

nuts

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and sea shell

Falanghina

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

two unique varieties (falanghina beneventana and falanghina flegrea) define campanias signature white. wines are zesty with peach fruit, minerals, and almond notes.

lemon

citrus

peach

honey

nuts

dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and honey

Valpolicella

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the regions most famous wine, amarone della valpolicella, partially dries grapes to increase concentration in a process called appasimento. corvina is the darling grape of the valpo blend and known for its flavors of cherries and chocolate.

cherry

cinnamon

chocolate

pepper

nuts

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

low tannin

high acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cinnamon and pepper

Vinsanto

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

confusingly, not italys vin santo, vinsanto is a greek sweet wine made in a passito style (sun-dried grapes) and known mostly from santorini where its made with assyrtiko.

apricot

cherry

bell pepper

caramel

orange peel

very sweet

full body

dessert

medium tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cherry and caramel

Cinsault

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

one of the minor grapes found in rhône blends and provençal rosés; cinsault delivers fresh, punchy reds that are just as floral as they are fruity.

raspberry

currant

cherry

flowers

tea

dry

medium-light body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and flowers

Chablis

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a wine region in northern burgundy that is as close to champagne as it is to burgundy, producing a leaner style of chardonnay generally with less oak use.

quince

starfruit

lime

flowers

chalk

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of starfruit and flowers

Arinto

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an indigenous grape to portugal that produces exceptional, age-worthy whites with the ability to evolve over 7 or more years; revealing flavors of beeswax and nuts.

lemon

grapefruit

nuts

beeswax

flowers

very dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and beeswax

Cabernet Franc

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

cabernet franc is the parent grape of both merlot and cabernet sauvignon. complex reds result, with aromas of raspberry, bramble, and bell pepper (pyrazines).

strawberry

raspberry

green pepper

gravel

pepper

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and gravel

St. Laurent

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

likely originating in austria, this small berried vine yields cherry flavoured wines that have been compared to a deeper coloured, beefier version of pinot noir.

raspberry

blackberry

tobacco

spice

chocolate

dry

medium body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice

Zweigelt

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

austrias most planted red wine grape and is a cross between blaufränkisch and st. laurent (tastes like pinot noir). resulting wines are bright, tart, and fruity.

cherry

raspberry

pepper

licorice

chocolate

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and licorice

Torrontés

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

argentinas very own white is actually a group of 3 varieties that are offspring of muscat of alexandria. of the 3 varieties torrontés riojano is considered the best.

lemon

peach

rose

flowers

orange

dry

medium-light body

aromatic white

low tannin

medium acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and flowers

Chianti

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the world-renowned tuscan, sangiovese-based wine was originally sold in straw-wrapped bottles called fiascos. chianti wines have many classifications by region and aging regime.

cherry

plum

tomato

leather

clay

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of plum and leather

Frappato

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a rare, fruity find from sicily, frappato bursts with aromas of sweet red berries and incense spice. its sometimes blended with nero davola to add complexity.

strawberry

pomegranate

pepper

tobacco

clay

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and tobacco

Fernão Pires

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a top white grape in portugal known in some areas as maria gomez. wines deliver high intensity floral aromas and medium body. more recently its been successfully blended with viognier.

lime

peach

orange

flowers

spiced plum

dry

medium-light body

aromatic white

low tannin

low acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and flowers

Bobal

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

this under-the-radar grape happens to be the 2nd most planted red wine in spain. wines are loved for their fruity flavors, soft tannins, and velvety finish.

blackberry

pomegranate

licorice

tea

chocolate

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and tea

Prosecco

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

italys most popular sparkling wine is created mostly in veneto and friuli-venezia giulia. the best prosecco wines come from the smaller sub-region of valdobiaddene.

melon

pear

lager

cream

dry

light body

sparkling

low tannin

medium acidity

A sparkling wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and lager

Nerello Mascalese

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a rare red sicilian grape producing fine light to medium-bodied red wines reminiscent of pinot noir. the best examples are found growing on the volcanic soils of mount etna.

cherry

orange

herbs

spice

gravel

very dry

medium-light body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of orange and spice

Friulano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

officially called sauvignonasse, this lean, dry, herbal white is often mistaken for sauvignon blanc. youll find it in abundance in northeastern italy in friuli-venezia giulia.

grapefruit

pear

peach

herbs

gravel

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pear and herbs

Grüner Veltliner

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

austrias most important wine is produced in a myriad of styles, the most popular of which are lean, herbaceous, and peppery wines with mouth-watering acidity.

starfruit

gooseberry

green bean

pepper

gravel

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and pepper

Vermentino

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

vermentino is an important white of sardinia and tuscany where producers offer both oaked and unoaked styles. its also one of the top white blending grapes included in provence rosé (labeled as rolle).

lime

grapefruit

green apple

nuts

flowers

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and nuts

Rkatsiteli

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a popular dry white wine in eastern europe all the way to georgia where producers use ancient winemaking techniques to produce intensely flavored oxidative wines.

pineapple

lime

resin

herbs

fennel

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and herbs

Sancerre

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a regional wine from the loire valley of central france. wines are mostly sauvignon blanc (and very rarely: pinot noir). sauvignon blanc is exceptionally lean and textured from sancerres chalky soils.

gooseberry

grapefruit

melon

hay

flint

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and hay

Silvaner

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an undervalued white wine primarily found in germany. silvaner wines deliver boisterous peach-like fruit contrasted by subtle herbal flavors. fans of pinot gris will delight.

peach

passion fruit

orange

thyme

flint

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of passion fruit and thyme

Müller-Thurgau

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a cross between riesling and madeleine royal, the vines are known to be hyper-productive and thus, most wines are somewhat boring. that said, quality minded wineries offer müller-thurgau with the same complexity as fine riesling.

peach

rose

lemon

lime

flint

slightly sweet

light body

aromatic white

low tannin

medium acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of rose and lime

Aligoté

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

aligoté is burgundys other white grape, more rarely encountered than chardonnay; yielding light, citrusy wines. it is also the traditional base ingredient for the kir cocktail.

apple

peach

flowers

smoke

herbs

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and smoke

Sauternais

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a group of rare dessert wines from bordeaux made with sémillon, sauvignon blanc, and muscadelle grapes infected with a special kind of rot called botrytis cinerea that concentrates the grape sugars.

marmalade

apricot

quince

honey

ginger

very sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apricot and honey

Graevina

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

graevina, a.k.a. welschriesling, is the most widely planted white grape in croatia, but confusingly has no link to german riesling. wines are typically neutral and easy drinking.

apple

citrus

pineapple

mango

ginger

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and mango

Bonarda

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

not the same grape as bonarda from italy, this bonarda (aka charbono or douce noir) grows alongside malbec in argentina where it produces equally fruity, smooth red wines.

plum

cherry

cardamom

fig

graphite

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of cherry and fig

viura

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the most important white grape of rioja where wines evolve over 10 or more years. in catalonia, viura is called macabeo and is the primary blending grape in cava sparkling wines.

honeydew

lime

lemongrass

tarragon

nuts

very dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and tarragon

Pinot Noir

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

pinot noir is the worlds most popular light-bodied red wine. its loved for its red fruit, flower, and spice aromas that are accentuated by a long, smooth finish.

cherry

raspberry

mushroom

vanilla

flowers

dry

medium body

light-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and vanilla

Orange Wine

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the name is a bit of a misnomer because this wine isnt made with oranges, but rather white grapes that have been fermented on their skins, much like red wine.

bruised

jackfruit

linseed oil

juniper

honey

very dry

medium-full body

full-bodied white

medium tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of jackfruit and juniper

Catarratto

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

null

lemon

apple

peach

flowers

honey

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and flowers

Chenin Blanc

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

its hard not to love chenin blanc; given its diversity of styles from lean, dry whites and aromatic sparklers, to sweet golden nectars as well as rich brandies.

quince

apple

pear

chamomile

honey

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and chamomile

Vidal

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a french hybrid grape, known principally for its use in ice wine making in canada. the vines are ideal for ice wine, as they are incredibly hardy and suited to harsh winters.

currant

pineapple

melon

lychee

flowers

slightly sweet

medium body

aromatic white

low tannin

high acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and lychee

White Bordeaux

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a white blend thats dominated by sémillon and sauvignon blanc, along with other grape varieties that are native to the bordeaux region of france.

grapefruit

gooseberry

lemon

herbs

lemongrass

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of gooseberry and herbs

Tokaji Aszú

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a notable hungarian sweet wine made mostly of furmint grapes that are affected by a special rot called botrytis cinerea. the rot concentrates the grapes sugars and adds distinct aromas of ginger and saffron.

tangerine

apricot

honey

ginger

marzipan

very sweet

medium body

dessert

low tannin

high acidity

A dessert wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apricot and ginger

Montepulciano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a popular italian red grape found mostly labeled as montepulciano dabruzzo. the best examples deliver complex black fruit flavors and a smoky-sweet finish.

plum

blackberry

herbs

spice

mesquite

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice

Arneis

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

arneis (little rascal) owes its existence, in part, from the efforts of one winemaker, alfredo currado of the vietti family, who brought it back from scarcity.

peach

apple

honey

nuts

nutmeg

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and nuts

Agiorgitiko

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the most widely planted red grape of greece offers a wide range of styles, from rosé to red. the most exceptional agiorgitiko wines are the full-bodied reds from nemea.

raspberry

blackberry

plum

pepper

nutmeg

very dry

medium-full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper

Sauvignon Blanc

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a popular and unmistakable white thats loved for its green herbal flavors and sky high acidity. sauvignon blanc grows nearly everywhere and is produced in a variety of methods resulting in a wide that range from lean to bountiful.

gooseberry

melon

grapefruit

white peach

passion fruit

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and white peach

Furmint

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

furmint is one of the most important hungarian varieties famously used in tokaji aszú dessert wines, but also available as a dry wine in a similar in style to riesling.

lemon

apple

ginger

smoke

green pepper

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and smoke

Fiano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a fascinating southern italian white with a richer, almost waxy texture thats known to be age worthy. its easy to find labeled as fiano di avellino from campania.

melon

pear

hazelnut

orange

pine

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pear and orange

Xarel-lo

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

one of the three main grapes used in the production of sparkling cava (along with parellada and macabeo). xarel-lo is noted to complement the richness of macabeo (aka viura) with high acidity.

lemon

peach

lime

ginger

nuts

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and ginger

Encruzado

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a rare portuguese white wine with exceptional quality and ability to be aged in oak, giving it a similar taste to white burgundy; it shows a distinct, slatey minerality.

grapefruit

lemon

hazelnut

ginger

resin

very dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and ginger

Savatiano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

greeces most planted variety is starting to make a comeback as more winemakers focus on quality producing richer, full-bodied white wines reminiscent of chardonnay.

apple

melon

lime

lemon

resin

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and lemon

Cserszegi F?szeres

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

null

peach

elderflower

grape

lychee

rose

slightly sweet

medium-light body

aromatic white

low tannin

medium acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of elderflower and lychee

Airén

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

spains most widely planted grape is primarily used for brandy, save for a few producers who have revitalized the drought-resistant old bush vines for winemaking.

apple

pineapple

grapefruit

banana

rose

dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and banana

País

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the chilean name for the spanish grape, listán prieto. its been used mostly for bulk rosé until recently, where quality-minded, natural winemakers are launching tart, high-tannin reds made from país old vines.

cherry

grape

anise

meat

herbs

very dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

low acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grape and meat

Picpoul

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a very old french white wine variety thats recently become increasingly popular for its lip-zapping white wines that pair perfectly with shellfish and fried foods.

apple

citrus

lemon

herbs

saline

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and herbs

Vernaccia di San Gimignano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

hailing from tuscany, this white grape is also the varietal in the tuscan regional wine with the same name. wines are bright, citrusy and crisp, and lend a slight bitter note on the finish.

apple

peach

lemon

nuts

saline

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and nuts

Verdicchio

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a fascinating white found primarily in the marche of italy where verdicchio wines are loved for their sweet, peachy aromatics and somewhat oily texture.

peach

lemon

nuts

oil

saline

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and oil

Albariño

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

one of the most delightfully refreshing whites from the iberian peninsula, mostly found growing in cooler areas close to the sea where it attains briny flavours.

lemon

grapefruit

honeydew

orange

saline

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of grapefruit and orange

Grillo

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

at home in sicily; the table wines that result are full in body, with a floral, herbal aroma. a major component of sicilys fortified flagship wine: marsala.

grapefruit

citrus

thyme

minerals

saline

very dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of citrus and minerals

Garganega

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an important italian white thats loved for its lean, dry style that gains rich tangerine and toasted almond notes as it ages. garganega is the main grape of soave (swah-vay.)

peach

melon

tangerine

herbs

saline

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and herbs

Sémillon

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an important white grape of bordeaux, including the prized dessert wine, sauternes. wines can be surprisingly rich and when oaked, can taste similar to chardonnay.

lemon

beeswax

peach

flowers

saline

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of beeswax and flowers

Grechetto

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

the primary grape in italys well-known orvieto wines from umbria and lazio. this white fuller in body and if you close your eyes, it will remind you of rosé!

peach

melon

strawberry

flowers

sea shell

very dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and flowers

Refosco

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a family of closely related varieties found northern italy and neighboring slovenia with genetic links to the grapes of valpolicella. wines range in body and style but usually feature deep color and elevated acidity.

cherry

dried herbs

espresso

spice

smoke

dry

medium-full body

full-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of dried herbs and spice

Chasselas

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a swiss variety which yields fairly neutral wines that tend to showcase their origin more so than other grapes, based on the terroir in which they grow.

apple

melon

mint

smoke

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of apple and mint

Baga

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

even though a large proportion of baga is used in portugals leading value wine, mateus rosé, the grape can produce age-worthy reds and complex sparkling rosé.

blackberry

currant

cherry

cocoa

tar

dry

medium-full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

high acidity

A full-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and cocoa

Ribolla Gialla

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an ancient white variety from northern italy, bordering slovenia. rarely seen elsewhere, wines are typically light in body and offer fruity, floral aromas, as well as bright acidity.

apple

tangerine

citrus

beeswax

herbs

dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of tangerine and beeswax

Gaglioppo

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a delicious, rare find from calabria that is the child grape of sangiovese and sibling to sicilys nerello mascalese. wines often deliver dusty fruit flavors.

raspberry

currant

clay

leather

tobacco

very dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of currant and leather

Carménère

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

null

raspberry

green pepper

plum

spice

vanilla

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of green pepper and spice

Dolcetto

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

in piedmont, dolcettos home, the name means little sweet one. funny enough, wines are generally tart with loads black fruit flavors and occasionally aggressive tannins.

black plum

blackberry

cocoa

pepper

flowers

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

low acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper

Rosé

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

rosé was once only thought of as fruity and cloying; these dry and mineral driven pink wines (that contain a plethora of grapes) have proven that rosé can be serious. seriously delicious.

strawberry

melon

rose

celery

melon

dry

light body

rosé

low tannin

medium acidity

A rosé wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and celery

Verdejo

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

an herbaceous white wine that grows almost exclusively in the rueda region of spain. not to be confused with verdelho, a portuguese grape used in primarily in madeira.

lime

melon

grapefruit

fennel

peach

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of melon and fennel

Moschofilero

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

a richly aromatic white wine that hails from the small region of mantíneia, close to tripoli in peloponnese, greece.

slightly sweet

medium-light body

aromatic white

low tannin

medium acidity

A aromatic white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and orange blossom

Colombard

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

this fairly neutral grape, once preferred solely for brandy production (notably armagnac) is planted globally. generally blended with other grapes, easy-drinking table wines result.

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of peach and melon

Pinot Gris

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

pinot gris (aka pinot grigio) is a pinkish grape mutation of pinot noir. its famously known for zesty white wines, but can also be used for rosé. look to northern italy, oregon, and alsace for benchmark examples.

dry

medium-light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lime and lemon

Trebbiano Toscano

yes

11.513.5% abv

medium

one of the top wine grapes of italy and france (where its called ugni blanc). that said, youd never realize it because trebbiano is mostly used in brandy and balsamic vinegar production!

dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with medium alcohol and with flavors of lemon and stone

Bandol

yes

13.515% abv

high

bandol is a tiny appellation within provence, france that is most famous for its rich, peppery, and meaty red wines made almost exclusively with mourvèdre.

blackberry

chocolate

game

pepper

spiced plum

very dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of chocolate and pepper

Marsanne

yes

13.515% abv

high

a primary blending grape in white rhône blends that also include roussanne, grenache blanc and sometimes viognier. a great alternative to chardonnay.

quince

orange

apricot

acacia

beeswax

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of orange and acacia

Sagrantino

yes

13.515% abv

high

a rare, central-italian red found mostly in umbria. its recently been noted to contain some of the highest polyphenol (antioxidants) levels of of any red wine.

plum

licorice

tea

olive

pepper

very dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of licorice and olive

Blaufränkisch

yes

13.515% abv

high

rich black fruit is contrasted by peppery flavors and boisterous acidity in this food-friendly austrian red. blaufränkisch is a parent grape of both gamay and zweigelt.

blackberry

cherry

chocolate

allspice

pepper

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and allspice

Barbera

yes

13.515% abv

high

barolo is what everyone talks about from piedmont, but barbera is what everyone drinks! this everyday red can be found in vineyards around the world.

cherry

licorice

blackberry

herbs

pepper

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

high acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of licorice and herbs

Verdelho

yes

13.515% abv

high

this portuguese native is one of the four key grapes used in the production of madeira; it is found little elsewhere, though select australian producers are making quality wines.

gooseberry

pineapple

ginger

melon

nuts

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pineapple and melon

White Rhône

yes

13.515% abv

high

the rare white wines of the rhône valley offer a terrific alternative for chardonnay lovers. wines are typically a blend of marsanne and roussanne with a little viognier and grenache blanc thrown in.

lemon

apricot

beeswax

orange

yeast

dry

medium-light body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of apricot and orange

Roussanne

yes

13.515% abv

high

an intriguing, rare full-bodied white found mostly in southern france where its blended into white blends with grenache blanc, marsanne and sometimes viognier.

lemon

apricot

beeswax

chamomile

yeast

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of apricot and chamomile

Chardonnay

yes

13.515% abv

high

one of the worlds most popular grapes, chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling blanc de blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak.

apple

starfruit

pineapple

vanilla

butter

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of starfruit and vanilla

Nero dAvola

yes

13.515% abv

high

sicilys most important red wine variety is often likened to cabernet sauvignon due to its full-bodied style and flavors of black cherry and tobacco.

cherry

plum

licorice

tobacco

pepper

dry

medium-full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and tobacco

Norton

yes

13.515% abv

high

an american hybrid of vitis vinifera and vitis aestivalis that shows excellent promise for winemaking in americas midwest. wines are often rich with both fruity and savory flavors.

currant

cherry

dill

pepper

chocolate

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and pepper

Brunello di Montalcino

yes

13.515% abv

high

brunello di montalcino is of italys top regional red wines, first labeled as such in 1865 by biondi-santi. wines are made with a special clone of sangiovese.

cherry

plum

leather

herbs

clay

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and herbs

Nebbiolo

yes

13.515% abv

high

one of italys most important red wine varieties made famous by the barolo region of piedmont where wines offer delicate aromas accompanied by strong tannins.

cherry

rose

leather

anise

clay

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of rose and anise

Malbec

yes

13.515% abv

high

argentinas most important variety came by way of france, where its commonly called côt (sounds like coat). wines are loved for their rich, dark fruit flavors and smooth chocolatey finish.

plum

blackberry

vanilla

tobacco

chocolate

dry

full body

full-bodied red

medium tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and tobacco

Mencía

yes

13.515% abv

high

a red variety from the iberian peninsula (spain and portugal) thats quickly developing a following. its loved for its heady aromatics and potential to age.

cherry

pomegranate

licorice

blackberry

gravel

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pomegranate and blackberry

Pinot Blanc

yes

13.515% abv

high

pinot blanc is the white grape mutation of pinot noir. its found mostly in germany and northern italy where wines are refreshing, peachy, and dry.

pear

peach

nuts

lemon

gravel

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of peach and lemon

Concord

yes

13.515% abv

high

an american grape of the vitis labrusca species from concord, massachusetts; it is the most planted grape in new york, but used more for juice and flavoring than winemaking.

grape

plum sauce

musk

earth

spice

slightly sweet

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum sauce and earth

Carignan

yes

13.515% abv

high

null

cranberry

raspberry

tobacco

spice

meat

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of raspberry and spice

Priorat

yes

13.515% abv

high

a spanish regional wine blend known largely for its full, dusty red wines made primarily from grenache and carignan. the best age a minimum of five years before release and some include merlot and cabernet sauvignon for additional complexity.

cherry

plum

gravel

licorice

chocolate

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and licorice

Tempranillo

yes

13.515% abv

high

spains top red wine, made famous by rioja, where wines are classified (in part) by how long they age in oak. whats amazing, is a well-made tempranillo ages for over 20 years.

cherry

fig

cedar

tobacco

herbs

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of fig and tobacco

Red Bordeaux

yes

13.515% abv

high

a red blend thats dominated by cabernet sauvignon and merlot, along with several other grape varieties native to the bordeaux region of france.

currant

cherry

graphite

chocolate

herbs

very dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and chocolate

Negroamaro

yes

13.515% abv

high

a red wine that grows in abundance in puglia but almost nowhere else; producing wines with rich black fruit flavors with a distinct finish of dried herbs.

cherry

plum

blackberry

prune

herbs

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and prune

Gewürztraminer

yes

13.515% abv

high

treasured for its intense floral aromas, gewürztraminer has thrived for centuries around germany. quality examples are ageworthy, but most are best enjoyed in their youth to preserve acidity.

lychee

rose

grapefruit

tangerine

ginger

slightly sweet

medium body

aromatic white

low tannin

low acidity

A aromatic white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of rose and tangerine

Cabernet Sauvignon

yes

13.515% abv

high

the worlds most popular red wine grape is a natural cross between cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc from bordeaux, france. cabernet sauvignon is loved for its high concentration and age worthiness.

cherry

currant

cedar

spice

graphite

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of currant and spice

Corvina

yes

13.515% abv

high

null

cherry

cinnamon

chocolate

pepper

nuts

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cinnamon and pepper

Syrah

yes

13.515% abv

high

a rich, powerful, and sometimes meaty red wine that originated in the rhône valley of france. syrah is the most planted grape of australia where they call it shiraz.

blueberry

plum

chocolate

tobacco

pepper

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and tobacco

Red Rhône

yes

13.515% abv

high

gsm stands for grenache, syrah, and mourvèdre three important grapes grown in the côtes du rhône region of france. today, this blend is produced throughout the world and is loved for its complex red fruit flavors and age-worthy potential.

raspberry

blackberry

rosemary

spice

flowers

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and spice

Barolo

yes

13.515% abv

high

piedmonts most famous red wine is made with 100% nebbiolo grapes. its translucent brick-red color, deceptively light body, and floral aromas contrast its dense tannin structure.

raspberry

cherry

rose

tar

licorice

very dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

high acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and tar

Castelão

yes

13.515% abv

high

null

currant

plum

strawberry

meat

mocha

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and meat

Red Rioja

yes

13.515% abv

high

spains most famous regional wine featuring tempranillo grapes. wines are known for their savory, dusty flavors and ability to age. rioja is one of few european winemaking zones that enlists the use of american oak barrels.

cherry

plum

dill

vanilla

leather

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and vanilla

Touriga Franca

yes

13.515% abv

high

a northern portuguese native, used mainly in port wine production, as well as blended table wines of the dão. wines are deep in colour, with floral, red-fruit flavours.

blackberry

cherry

graphite

rose

pepper

dry

medium body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and rose

Mourvèdre

yes

13.515% abv

high

a deeply bold, smoky red wine found in abundance in central spain and southern france (where its known as mourvèdre). monastrell is the m in the rhône / gsm blend.

blackberry

pepper

cocoa

tobacco

meat

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pepper and tobacco

Viognier

yes

13.515% abv

high

a rich, oily white wine that originated in the northern rhône and is rapidly growing in popularity in california, australia, and beyond. wines are often age in oak to deliver chardonnay-like richness.

tangerine

peach

mango

honeysuckle

rose

dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of peach and honeysuckle

Petit verdot

yes

13.515% abv

high

considered a minor blending grape in bordeaux, petit verdot has shown promise as a single-varietal wine in warmer climates where it makes smooth full-bodied reds.

cherry

plum

violet

lilac

herbs

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and lilac

Godello

yes

13.515% abv

high

a rare grape with great potential from the iberian peninsula delivers mouth-watering flavors of briny grapefruit. the best examples offer smoky minerality.

grapefruit

lemon

quince

gravel

saline

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of lemon and gravel

Assyrtiko

yes

13.515% abv

high

native to santorini, assyrtiko is a rare grape in terms of vineyard area, but is quickly picking up acreage throughout greece. noted for its texture, acidity, and minerality.

lime

passion fruit

beeswax

flint

saline

very dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of passion fruit and flint

Malvasia Fina

yes

13.515% abv

high

malvasia fina, or boal, as it is known on the island of madeira is one of the four main grapes used in madeira production. in table wines, full aromatics and alcohol are of note.

peach

flowers

nuts

herbs

sea shell

sweet

medium-light body

dessert

low tannin

low acidity

A dessert wine with high alcohol and with flavors of flowers and herbs

Aglianico

yes

13.515% abv

high

if nebbiolo is king of northern italy, then aglianico is king of the south. a wine with incredible quality, and a unique savory flavor thats best enjoyed aged.

pepper

cherry

smoke

game

plum

very dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and game

Sangiovese

yes

13.515% abv

high

italys most planted wine variety and the pride of the tuscan regional wine, chianti. sangiovese is a sensitive grape that takes on different stylistic expressions based on where it grows.

cherry

tomato

herbs

coffee

balsamic

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of tomato and coffee

Alicante Bouschet

yes

13.515% abv

high

a rare type of grape that has both red skins and red flesh, known as a teinturier. created when french botanist, henri bouschet, crossed grenache with petit bouschet.

cherry

blackberry

black

pepper

tobacco

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and pepper

Grenache Blanc

yes

13.515% abv

high

grenache blanc is a color mutation of grenache producing full-bodied white wines that are sometimes aged in oak to delivery toasty, creamy, dill-like flavors.

plum

pear

lemon

flowers

toast

very dry

medium body

full-bodied white

low tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied white wine with high alcohol and with flavors of pear and flowers

Xinomavro

yes

13.515% abv

high

the most important grape of naoussa, greece where wine enthusiasts often cite the xinomavros similarities to the nebbiolo grape and the collector-worthy wines of barolo.

raspberry

plum

anise

spice

tobacco

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

high acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and spice

Vin Santo

yes

13.515% abv

high

vin santo or holy wine is a rare dessert wine found mostly in tuscany. the grapes are first dried on straw mats to concentrate the sugars and can take as long as 4 years to ferment.

perfume

fig

raisin

nuts

caramel

very sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

high acidity

A dessert wine with high alcohol and with flavors of fig and nuts

Merlot

yes

13.515% abv

high

merlot is loved for its boisterous black cherry flavors, supple tannins, and chocolatey finish. on the high end, its often mistaken with cabernet sauvignon and commonly blended with it.

cherry

plum

chocolate

hers

vanilla

very dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of plum and hers

Tannat

yes

13.515% abv

high

tannat is the most planted variety of uruguay where it was studied to determine that it contains some of the highest polyphenols (antioxidants) of all red wines.

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with high alcohol and with flavors of smoke and plum

Sherry

yes

over 15% abv

very high

the top fortified wine of spain made primarily with palomino grapes and extended oxidative aging. its available in a range of styles of bone dry to very sweet.

jackfruit

saline

lemon

nuts

slightly sweet

medium-light body

dessert

low tannin

high acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of saline and nuts

Grenache

yes

over 15% abv

very high

grenache (aka garnacha) produces rich, flavorful red wines and deep, ruby-tinted rosé. the french have championed this grape in the southern rhône valley but its original home is spain!

strawberry

plum

leather

herbs

orange

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

medium tannin

medium acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of plum and herbs

Maury

yes

over 15% abv

very high

an appellation for the production of vin doux naturel (fortified wine) in the southern roussillon of france. wines must be made with a minimum 75% grenache noir, among others.

strawberry

prune

earth

ginger

caramel

very sweet

full body

dessert

high tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of prune and ginger

Port

yes

over 15% abv

very high

portugals flagship; an aged, sweet fortified wine that comes in a wide range of styles, largely based on ageing techniques. commonly seen styles include ruby and tawny.

plum

cherry

chocolate

raisin

cinnamon

very sweet

full body

dessert

high tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of cherry and raisin

Banyuls

yes

over 15% abv

very high

one of frances most important sweet, fortified vin doux naturel wines made primarily of grenache and/or grenache blanc grapes with 6 official styles.

strawberry

prunes

earth

chocolate

mint

very sweet

full body

dessert

high tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of prunes and chocolate

Madeira

yes

over 15% abv

very high

oxidized, fortified dessert wines from the island of madeira ranging in style from slightly sweet to sweet. wines are incredibly stable and are known to age over 100 years.

caramel

nuts

peach

nuts

orange

sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of nuts and nuts

Pinotage

yes

over 15% abv

very high

south africas own hearty red was created in 1925 and is a cross between cinsault and pinot noir. oddly enough, pinotage is bolder than both its progenitors.

cherry

blackberry

fig

menthol

meat

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

low acidity

A full-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of blackberry and menthol

Zinfandel

yes

over 15% abv

very high

a fruit-forward-yet-bold red thats loved for its red fruit flavors and smoky exotic spice notes. originally from croatia and related to top croatian grape, plavic mali.

blackberry

strawberry

peach

cinnamon

tobacco

dry

medium-full body

medium-bodied red

high tannin

low acidity

A medium-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and cinnamon

Marsala

yes

over 15% abv

very high

marsala is a fortified wine from sicily commonly used in cooking to create rich, caramelized sauces but can also make fine sipping wines, ranging from dry to sweet.

apricot

vanilla

tamarind

caramel

tobacco

sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of vanilla and caramel

Vin Jaune

yes

over 15% abv

very high

a rare, oxidized french white with bizarrely unique aromas. occassionally, youll find it used in cooking where it adds an indescrible nutty taste to classic french dishes.

turpentine

pear

rose

fennel

caramel

dry

medium-full body

dessert

medium tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of pear and fennel

White Port

yes

over 15% abv

very high

the most important fortified sweet wine of portugal is made in a range of styles including white, rosé, red and tawny, each with a unique taste profile.

spiced pear

quince

almond

honey

vanilla

very sweet

medium-full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of quince and honey

Touriga Nacional

yes

over 15% abv

very high

an increasingly important red from portugal that was originally used in port wines and is now featured in single varietal wines and red blends from the douro valley.

dry

full body

full-bodied red

high tannin

medium acidity

A full-bodied red wine with very high alcohol and with flavors of flowers and blueberries

Moscatel de Setúbal

yes

under 10% abv

very low

a rich and honeyed fortified dessert wine made primarily with muscat of alexandria grapes grown on the setúbal peninsula in southern portugal.

orange

grape

apricot

honey

caramel

very sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of grape and honey

Pedro Ximénez

yes

under 10% abv

very low

the andalucían grapes responsible for some of the worlds sweetest fortified wines are often dried in the sun to further concentrate the sugars. px sherry on your pancakes, anyone?

toffee

fig

walnut

lemon

coffee

very sweet

full body

dessert

low tannin

low acidity

A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of fig and lemon

Brachetto

yes

under 10% abv

very low

brachetto dacqui is a frizzante (semi-sparkling) sweet red wine from piedmont thats known for its candied and floral aromatics.

strawberry

orange

currant

apricot

cream

sweet

medium-light body

light-bodied red

low tannin

medium acidity

A light-bodied red wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of orange and apricot

Muscat Blanc

yes

under 10% abv

very low

an ancient aromatic white variety originally from greece thats available in many styles, from dry to sweet to still, sparkling, and fortified.

orange

lemon

orange

pear

flowers

slightly sweet

light body

aromatic white

low tannin

medium acidity

A aromatic white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of lemon and pear

Riesling

yes

under 10% abv

very low

an aromatic white variety that can produce white wines ranging in style from very dry to very sweet. germany is the worlds most important producer of riesling.

lime

apple

beeswax

flowers

petrol

slightly sweet

light body

aromatic white

low tannin

high acidity

A aromatic white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of apple and flowers

Txakoli

yes

under 10% abv

very low

a bone dry, slightly spritzy wine from spains basque country, produced in three different regions from a host of grapes, most importantly hondarrabi zuri.

lime

strawberry

peony

herbs

saline

dry

light body

light-bodied white

low tannin

high acidity

A light-bodied white wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of strawberry and herbs

Muscat of Alexandria

yes

under 10% abv

very low

another important muscat variety used primarily for dessert wines that delivers slightly more mandarin orange, orange zest and sweet rose notes than muscat blanc.

orange

honey

lychee

peach

flowers

sweet

medium body

dessert

low tannin

medium acidity

A dessert wine with very low alcohol and with flavors of honey and peach

How to study wine

Studying wine is really a lifelong endeavor. But, it’s not that hard to round out your foundational knowledge about wine. This is the knowledge you’ll need to successfully sell bottles to others. This article will discuss several course-based options as well as an approach to self-study that will suit even the most eager wine learners and help you sell more wine.

August 1, 2019