With over 1,300 grape varieties worldwide it can be hard to choose. From traditional, noble varieties to something completely new it is best to know the grapes’ characteristics to truly enjoy your wine.
Check out the 'Grape Guide' to find out key information about each grape or select an article below for more information
Pinot Blanc, often overshadowed by its more famous relatives like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, is a grape variety that deserves much more attention. Known for its crisp, refreshing profile and versatility, Pinot Blanc is cultivated in several wine regions worldwide, producing wines that can be both delightful and complex.
Merlot, one of the most widely planted and loved grape varieties globally, holds a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts and winemakers alike. Known for its role in some of the world’s most prestigious wines, particularly from Bordeaux, Merlot’s adaptability and approachable nature make it a star in both the vineyard and the glass.
Part of the famous GSM blend, Mourvèdre is used to make highly tannic and full-bodied wines. It needs lots of heat to ripen properly but can make very age-worthy wines.
Zinfandel in America or Primitivo in Italy has a mixed reputation. From bold, high alcohol red wines to sweet pink rosé Zinfandel might not suit everyone’s tastes. However, when carefully produced the wines can be interesting with powerful aromatics and a rich structure.
Chenin Blanc is a very versatile grape variety that can produce wines at a range of sweetness levels and sparkling wine. Equally, the quality level can also range significantly. There are two key countries for Chenin Blanc, France, specifically the Loire Valley and South Africa.
Known for the unfair term ABC (Anything But Chardonnay) this is a variety with a mixed reputation. At its best, the wines can be highly complex, with a great ageing ability and show great winemaking skill. At its worst, it can be dull, flabby and forgettable.
Grenache is an interesting variety. It is full of bright fruit flavours and floral notes. It is grown throughout the world creating a range of styles most commonly red and rosé
Tempranillo is an incredible grape variety widely used in Spain and Portugal. It is used in the production of one of the worlds’ most fantastic fortified wines, Port. In Spain Rioja and Ribera del Duero it shines.
A great grape with a poor quality reputation. Gamay is hugely underrated in my opinion. Top quality Beaujolais Cru wines cannot only be of outstanding quality but also much more affordable in comparison to other French appellations.
The worlds' most famous red wine grape. Descendant of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Planted in warmer regions as tends to ripen later. Powerful aromas of blackcurrant, and if matured in new oak, aromas of cedar and tobacco can be seen. In youth deep purple in colour, ages well. The grapes are small but thick skinned-high ratio of colour matter and tannins to juice.
