Impact-Site-Verification: 7f8031ee-5e42-40e9-b7ab-2904acf614c3

If you are a fan of vino, you already know that there is an abundance of grape varieties to select from! From the smoky, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon, to the light and crisp Sauvignon Blanc, every vino fan has a particular preference in terms of the type of grape they enjoy. Not only is variety the spice of life, but it also allows one to explore a plethora of flavors, aromas, and textures.

Today, we will be discussing some of the major grape varietals, and their respective characteristics. Keep on reading to find out exactly which type of complex flavors life has in store for you!

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon tends to produce full-bodied wines with a specific smoky flavor. It is a dark-skinned grape variety, and is grown in both warm and cool climates. These wines pair best with game meat, roast beef, lamb, and pork chops. Cabernet Sauvignon is also a major varietal in the Bordeaux blend.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is one of the most widely known sparkling grapes and is the base grape for the production of champagne. Chardonnay is known for its golden, light to medium body wines. These wines pair best with a variety of fish, chicken, pork, and cream-based sauces. Chardonnay is also a major varietal in the Champagne blend.

Syrah/Shiraz

Syrah/Shiraz wines are dark-skinned grape varieties that produce a full-bodied, intense, and spice-filled vino. These wines stand up best to food with strong flavors like steak, lamb, and red sauces. This is also the dominate variety in the Rhone blend.

Riesling

Riesling is one of the more aromatic vino grapes and is often used to produce white wines. It produces light to medium-bodied wines with mineral and fruity flavors. Riesling pairs best with food that has light cream sauces, vegetable dishes, and white meat. This is also a major varietal in the German blend.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is grown in both cool and warm climates and produces a light, crisp wine. These wines pair best with salads, grilled fish, and light sauces. Sauvignon Blanc is typically found in France as a component of the Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé.

We hope this guide gives you a better understanding of the various grape varietals, in terms of flavor profiles and food pairings. Now that you are an expert on the subject, it’s time to explore the diverse world of tasting and selecting the perfect wine for your palate!