{"id":5417,"date":"2018-11-06T02:32:16","date_gmt":"2018-11-06T02:32:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/?post_type=winery&#038;p=5417"},"modified":"2022-06-11T20:11:33","modified_gmt":"2022-06-12T00:11:33","slug":"daou-vineyards-winery","status":"publish","type":"winery","link":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/winery\/daou-vineyards-winery\/","title":{"rendered":"Daou Vineyards &#038; Winery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>DAOU Vineyards stands alone at an elevation of 2,200 feet, the mountain mostly contains calcareous clay soil, which yield high quality fruit that is carefully hand picked. This leads to elegant and memorable wines.\u00a0Here, the calcareous clay soil is comparable to Bordeaux&#8217;s Right Bank, while the buffered Pacific microclimate is similar to Saint Helena &#8211; a perfect confluence of elements. DAOU Mountain is blessed with extraordinary phenolic output, yielding some of the darkest, most deeply textured wines in the world. These wines are never acidified, as the ideal level of acidity comes naturally.<\/p>\n<p>The stunning view from DAOU Mountain across the rest of the Paso Robles region will leave a dramatic impression on you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":5455,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"amenity":[884,253,1442,1076,230,159,167,803],"wine_style":[748,919,920,1614,1532,1531],"experiences":[2776,2649,2748,3506,2695,3332,2652,2651,3077,3431,2683,2728,2740,2798,2679],"class_list":["post-5417","winery","type-winery","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","amenity-cheese-platters","amenity-event-space","amenity-food-wine-pairings","amenity-gourmet-charcuterie-boards","amenity-great-views","amenity-picnic-area","amenity-restaurant","amenity-wine-tastings","wine_style-dessert-wines","wine_style-dry-red-wines","wine_style-dry-white-wines","wine_style-port-style-wines","wine_style-red-wines","wine_style-white-wines","grapes-cabernet-franc","grapes-cabernet-sauvignon","grapes-chardonnay","grapes-grenache","grapes-malbec","grapes-merlot","grapes-petit-sirah","grapes-petit-verdot","grapes-pinot-noir","grapes-sauvignon-blanc","grapes-syrah","grapes-tempranillo","destinations-california","destinations-paso-robles","destinations-united-states","regions-california","regions-paso-robles","experiences-beautiful-views","experiences-couples-travel","experiences-epic-landscapes","experiences-estate-picnics","experiences-food-drink","experiences-food-wine-pairings","experiences-honeymoon","experiences-luxury","experiences-mountain-views","experiences-restaurant","experiences-road-trips","experiences-solo-travel","experiences-sunset","experiences-vineyard-views","experiences-wine-tastings"],"acf":{"featured":true,"featured_order":"","content_title":"Winery in Paso Robles, California","logo":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/DAOU_Logo_Web.png","website_url":"https:\/\/www.daouvineyards.com\/","established_year":"2007","head_wine_maker":"Daniel Daou","hours_of_operation":"Daily  10am - 5pm","yelp_id":"daou-vineyards-paso-robles","contact_name":"","phone_number":"+1 805-369-6740","email_address":"","region":{"ID":5377,"post_author":"43","post_date":"2018-10-31 14:37:58","post_date_gmt":"2018-10-31 14:37:58","post_content":"","post_title":"San Luis Obispo County","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"draft","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"san-luis-obispo-county","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2022-08-23 22:06:27","post_modified_gmt":"2022-08-24 02:06:27","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/?post_type=wine_region&#038;p=5377","menu_order":0,"post_type":"wine_region","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},"sub_region":{"term_id":1292,"name":"Paso Robles","slug":"paso-robles","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":1292,"taxonomy":"sub_region","description":"","parent":0,"count":0,"filter":"raw"},"address_1":"2777 Hidden Mountain Rd","address_2":"","country":{"ID":418,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2017-10-30 21:41:59","post_date_gmt":"2017-10-30 21:41:59","post_content":"","post_title":"United States","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"united-states","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2017-10-30 21:41:59","post_modified_gmt":"2017-10-30 21:41:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/?post_type=country&#038;p=418","menu_order":0,"post_type":"country","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},"state":false,"city":"Paso Robles","postal_code":"93446","lat":"35.641263","lng":"-120.784292","place_id":"ChIJJ3YAROnQ7IARvm6J8P_mib8","tasting_details":"<strong>Wine Tasting Experience<\/strong><br \/>\r\nCome savor a diverse flight of wines from our coveted DAOU Reserve and DAOU Estate tiers, all with the option of enhancing the moment with light bites. After your tasting, you may also indulge in a Food & Wine Pairing selected by our Estate Chef. A reserved seated tasting adds a luxurious touch as you enjoy your flight on our mountain overlook patio or by our cozy fireside.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n$40 per person.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n<strong>The Vintage Retrospective Experience<\/strong><br \/>\r\nSavor the staying power of DAOU wines. After welcoming you with a taste of our DAOU wine, we will escort you on an ATV to a private ride overlooking the estate vineyard, if weather permitting. Here, you will experience a DAOU Estate Wine Tasting from the library of proprietors Georges and Daniel Daou, illustrating how each vintage generously evolves in the bottle. Each wine will be accentuated with pairings curated by our Estate Chef.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n$95 per person & $75 for members (two tastings waived upon joining membership). Please allow 90-120 minutes. Available Monday through Friday.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n<strong>Cabernet Comprehensive<\/strong><br \/>\r\nBrothers Georges and Daniel Daou set forth across California to find an unrivaled terroir for producing Cabernet Sauvignon, a quest that led them to a place of foretold greatness: DAOU Mountain. During this private guided tasting, you will walk in their footsteps\u2014from the rich history of the mountain to the unique growing conditions that drive the excellence of DAOU Cabernet Sauvignon.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\nYour experience is an intimate seated tasting of four Cabernet-based wines, including our highly coveted DAOU Estate Soul of a Lion. $65 per person-$50 members (two tastings waived upon joining membership). Please allow 90 minutes.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n<strong>Cheese & Charcuterie Experience<\/strong><br \/>\r\nTantalize your palate as we present you with a cheese & charcuterie flight expertly paired with five DAOU selections, including our highly coveted DAOU Estate wines. Your communal experience begins with a guided walk around introduction to the unique journey of DAOU. Next, you will return to enjoy a seated wine tasting featuring a range of fine artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, all led by a personal wine educator.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n$55 per person & $35 for members (two tastings waived upon joining membership).<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n<strong>Culinary Pairing Experience<\/strong><br \/>\r\nElevate your senses as we treat you to a perfect pairing of wine, cuisine and limitless views on the crown of DAOU Mountain. Select your own prix fixe flight of three progressive pairings from a menu of options curated by our Estate Sommelier and Estate Chef. This experience is a tribute to the Lebanese culinary heritage of the Daou family.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n$75 per guest (one tasting waived upon joining membership). Please allow 60 - 75 minutes. Available between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm daily.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n<strong>Estate Picnics<\/strong><br \/>\r\nMake your visit to DAOU Mountain a relaxing and restorative experience. In private Adirondack chairs with panoramic above-the-clouds views, savor a picnic basket filled with local artisan cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruit, salad and a French baguette\u2014all paired with a refreshing bottle of DAOU Reserve Chardonnay. Your Wine Educator is here to make your experience memorable\u2014otherwise enjoy an uninterrupted escape that is all your own.<br \/>\r\n<br \/>\r\n$195 for guests & $150 for members. Experience accomodates 2 - 4 guests. Please allow 60 - 75 minutes. This experience is available from March through October.","tasting_price":"$$ - $$$","tour_details":"Cabernet Comprehensive - Tour followed by a flight of 4 Cabernet wines to taste.","tour_price":"$65","reservations_required":true,"reservation_details":"Tour reservations are required. Wine tastings are not.","gallery":[{"image":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Daou2.jpg","title":"","description":""},{"image":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Daou-Winery-2-640x427.jpg","title":"","description":""},{"image":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/daou-vineyards.jpg","title":"","description":""},{"image":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/daou-vineyards-1.jpg","title":"","description":""}],"grapes":[{"ID":1871,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_content":"<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div class=\"hasHiddenText\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Editor's Note: Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/span><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator {\"gradient\":\"very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray\"} -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background has-background\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine grape variety of the grapevine species vitis vinifera. It is the most widely grown red wine grape variety in the world, and its wines were recently ranked as the most searched and sought-after in the world.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It can form a full-bodied, complex, fruit-forward and dry wine when vinified correctly. The Cabernet Sauvignon grape has received most of its notoriety from being grown in the&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/30-best-bordeaux-wineries-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bordeaux region of France<\/strong><\/a>. Traditionally speaking, these wines taste of heavy red and black fruit backed by noticeable tannins.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Cabernet Sauvignon Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The climate Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in has been known to substantially affect its taste. Cooler climate Cabernet will tend to yield a more dark-fruit-forward wine with evidence of acidity. While warmer climates tend to yield more evidence of rich red fruit.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Classic fruit notes are deep and dark: blackberry, black cherry, plum, cassis, and raisins. Earth and mineral notes can vary depending on terroir and vinification methods but classic notes include cedar, bell pepper, cracked spice, wood smoke, oak, tobacco, black olive, mushroom, mint, and wet gravel.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Cabernet Sauvignon Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Because of its complexity and high tannin structure, Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice with any poultry or meat dish. The rugged spiciness of the wine combined with its dark fruit and earth will easily balance out grilled poultry, grilled pork, filet mignon, rack of lamb, or braised pork ribs perfectly. For vegetarian dishes, it works well with spiced mushroom, eggplant, or quinoa-based dishes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For cheese pairings, Cabernet Sauvignon works best with medium to sharp cheeses, like aged cheddar, apple-smoked gouda, asiago, gruyere, goat cheese, stilton, or bleu cheese.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Sauvignon is a choice grape variety for wine drinkers and vintners alike because of its taste profile and ease to produce. The vines are incredibly hardy and can grow in an array of climates and terroirs. They produce grapes with thick skins which are highly resistant to damaging weather like frost and hail.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Yields are often high, which can be a huge positive for winemakers considering that Cabernet is one of the most in-demand red wines around the world. On the other hand, controlling yields is also important for more boutique, craft wineries who are looking for a more refined product. This requires further investment in labor costs and a choice selection in terroir.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Ironically, if you were to look at it on a timescale starting when humans first tried wine, Cabernet Sauvignon hasn\u2019t been around that long. It was stumbled upon during the&nbsp;17th century in&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/south-west-france\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Southwestern France<\/strong><\/a>, where&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/sauvignon-blanc-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Sauvignon Blanc<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-resources\/cabernet-franc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Franc<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;were crossed to form a new grape variety.&nbsp;<em>(This was recently discovered in&nbsp;1996 where DNA testing was done&nbsp;at the&nbsp;<\/em><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/1999\/11\/23\/science\/vintage-genetics-turns-out-to-be-ordinaire.html\" target=\"_blank\"><em>UC Davis Department of Viticulture and Enology<\/em><\/a><em>).<\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Beyond Bordeaux, there are a plethora of quality Cabernet growing areas. Venture into regions like the Loire Valley, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/lebanon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lebanon\u2019s Beqaa Valley<\/a><\/strong>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/tuscany\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Tuscany<\/strong><\/a>, and Navarra in Spain to truly expand your palate and see this grape\u2019s potential.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While centuries of wine production in Bordeaux helped launch Cabernet to fame over time, other&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/napa-valley\/10-must-visit-napa-wineries-boutique-off-the-beaten-path\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>regions like Napa Valley<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;have helped bring it to the forefront of the new world as a single-varietal red wine. Many Bordeaux winemakers are known for blending Cabernet Sauvignon with other varieties, such as Merlot and Cabernet Franc.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>With wine production is expanding globally at a record pace, wine enthusiasts should begin to look towards other old world and new world wine-producing regions to sample new takes on Cabernet Sauvignon. In North America, <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/washington\/best-woodinville-wineries-tasting-rooms-hollywood-district\/\" target=\"_blank\">Washington State<\/a><\/strong> is growing gorgeous examples of Cabernet in AVAs including Yakima, <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/walla-walla\/\" target=\"_blank\">Walla Walla<\/a><\/strong>, Red Mountain, Horse Heaven Hills and the Columbia Valley. California wine lovers undoubtedly should continue to keep an eye on <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/sonoma-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Sonoma County\u2019s wines<\/strong><\/a>.&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/best-paso-robles-wineries-tasting-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Paso Robles<\/strong><\/a>, and <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/lake-county-itinerary-wineries-hotels-restaurants\/\" target=\"_blank\">Lake County<\/a><\/strong>. The <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/santa-cruz-mountains-scm-ava-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Santa Cruz Mountains<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;are also crafting some delicious examples.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A variety of New World countries and regions produce fantastic Cabernet. From New Zealand\u2019s Hawke\u2019s Bay region to Australia\u2019s McLaren Valley, all the way to&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/chile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>regions across Chile<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and even Stellenbosch in South Africa.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How Cabernet Sauvignon is Aged<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Sauvignon produces some of the most age-worthy wines in the world. Cab loves oak \u2013 it\u2019s such a bold wine that it\u2019s almost impossible for oak to be intrusive. Instead, oak can really work wonders to round out the rough edges of young Cabernet Sauvignon.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>French, American, and Hungarian oak all work well with Cab and it\u2019s rare that oak isn\u2019t used. High-end Bordeaux and high-end Napa Cabs can age for decades, and even less expensive Cabernets can age for a bit. While we don\u2019t necessarily recommend hanging on to an inexpensive wine for years \u2013 they are, after all, meant to be drunk young \u2013 with Cab, it could be a fun experiment just to see what happens.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try some of these great Cabernet Sauvignon wines and Cabernet-based blends from around the world: <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spvs\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chateau Pontet-Canet<\/strong><\/a>, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/drva\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chateau Brane-Cantenac<\/strong>,<\/a> Margaux, Bordeaux, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/94kw\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Clos du Val, Hirondelle Vineyard<\/strong><\/a>, Stags Lead District, Napa Valley, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/2oyn\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Obsidian Ridge,<\/strong><\/a> Red Hills, Lake County, North Coast, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/29j7\" target=\"_blank\">L\u2019Ecole 41,<\/a><\/strong> Walla Walla Valley, Columbia Valley, Washington<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/3rey\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Hacienda Araucano \u2018Gran Araucano,\u2019<\/strong><\/a> Colchagua Valley, Rapel Valley, Chile<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:shortcode -->\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published. It's free!\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\n<!-- \/wp:shortcode -->","post_title":"Cabernet Sauvignon","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-10-29 14:12:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-10-29 18:12:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/cabernet-sauvignon\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1912,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"small\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Editor\u2019s Note:<\/strong> Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine grape variety that is most often used to produce dry white wines. Light and refreshing, it\u2019s unique in that its flavor sets it apart from most other white grape varieties.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sauvignon Blanc is famously used as part of the blend for making the sweet dessert wine in Bordeaux, called&nbsp;<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/sauternes-wine-region-bordeaux\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Sauternes<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Sauvignon Blanc Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Although the climate and terroir for Sauvignon Blanc grown throughout the world can have a huge impact on flavor, there are some general commonalities.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sauvignon Blanc tasting notes are most commonly associated with tropical, tree, and citrus fruit. Specifically, flavor nuances of dates, papaya, melon, and notes of herbs or dry underbrush are most present when the wine comes from a cooler climate.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If exposed to oak, you may notice bits of English pudding, custard, and vanilla. While it\u2019s probably most well known for being the preferred white wine grape variety in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/bordeaux\/#:~:text=Bordeaux%20produces%20Red%2C%20White%20and,estates%20of%20the%20Left%20Bank.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bordeaux region of France<\/a><\/strong> and the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/loire-valley-wine-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Loire Valley<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 New World wine-growing regions such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/napa-valley\/best-napa-wineries-wine-tasting-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Napa Valley<\/strong><\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/best-sonoma-wineries-complete-wine-tasting-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Sonoma County<\/strong><\/a>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/new-zealand\/marlborough-sauvignon-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marlborough New Zealand<\/a><\/strong> are producing incredible Sauvignon Blanc as well. Classic fruit notes include melon, lemon-lime, white peach, grapefruit, orange, and papaya with notes of grass, geranium, green pepper, spice, and smoke.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is Sauvignon Blanc considered a dry wine?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Often characterized by its lively acidity and vibrant flavors, Sauvignon Blanc is indeed considered a dry wine. That means it typically has little to no residual sugar, leaving your palate refreshed and craving more.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As you sip on a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, in addition to the tasting notes we mentioned above, you'll likely be greeted by flavors of citrus, gooseberry, and sometimes even grassy or herbal notes. It's these crisp, tantalizing characteristics that make Sauvignon Blanc a go-to choice for many when seeking a wine that pairs beautifully with light dishes, seafood, warm afternoons, and good company. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Speaking of pairings...<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Sauvignon Blanc Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sauvignon Blanc variety pairs incredibly well with sushi. The light, crisply refreshing tropical fruits, and subtle herbs play well with fish crafted with similar toppings and sauces. Your fish doesn't need to be raw, though. We recently had a beautiful New World Sauvignon Blanc with crisp oysters drizzled with spicy aioli and mango-poblano pico. It's also worth sampling alongside lemon-butter scallops or steamed mussels.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When drinking a Sauvignon Blanc that's been aged in oak, try something a bit heavier to accent the vanilla creme and toasted flavors. Grilled chicken with grilled veggies, chicken Francaise, or lemon-lime cilantro cream mahi-mahi (or swordfish) will pair nicely.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Serving &amp; Storage of Sauvignon Blanc<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Serving and storing Sauvignon Blanc wines the right way can greatly enhance your tasting experience, ensuring that you fully appreciate the vibrant flavors and aromas of this delightful white wine. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Sauvignon Blanc:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Serving Temperature<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The ideal serving temperature for Sauvignon Blanc is between 45\u00b0F and 50\u00b0F (7\u00b0C and 10\u00b0C). Chilling the wine at this temperature range accentuates its refreshing acidity and crisp flavors. To achieve the perfect temperature, you can refrigerate the bottle for about 2 hours before serving or use a wine cooler to maintain the desired temperature.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Glassware<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-glasses\/best-wine-glasses-for-white-wine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>white wine glass<\/strong><\/a> with a narrow bowl and slightly tapered top. This shape helps concentrate the wine's delicate aromas and directs the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate, ensuring that you can fully appreciate its lively flavors and refreshing acidity.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Storage Conditions<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>To maintain the quality and freshness of your Sauvignon Blanc, it's important to store the wine properly. Keep the bottles in a cool, dark place, such as a wine cellar or a temperature-controlled wine refrigerator. The ideal storage temperature for most white wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, is around 45\u00b0F to 55\u00b0F (7\u00b0C to 13\u00b0C). It's also crucial to store the wine away from direct sunlight or strong artificial light, as prolonged exposure can damage the wine.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bottle Orientation<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When storing Sauvignon Blanc or any wine with a natural cork, it's essential to store the bottles horizontally. This keeps the cork moist and prevents it from drying out, which could lead to oxidation and spoilage of the wine.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Sauvignon Blanc<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This grape variety can grow in both cool and warm climates within a variety of soil compositions. That makes it a bit complex. For instance, in New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc is drastically affected by the type of soil it\u2019s grown in.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cThicker,\u201d more dense soil compositions tend to bring out more earth and herbal flavors, while \u201cthinner,\u201d more aerated soils tend to produce less herbaceous and more tropical Sauvignon Blanc.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Compound these soil variations with different climates and this grape variety gets even more intricate. Cooler climates also bring out more earth, herb, and citrus, while warmer climates bring out more tropical and tree fruit flavors.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Excessive warmth during the growing season can force these late budding, early ripening grapes to over-ripen. Over-ripe Sauvignon Blanc will lack aromatics, acid, and depth of flavor.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Sauvignon Blanc Aged?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Most Sauvignon Blancs are meant to be enjoyed soon after release but a variety of factors can contribute to age-worthiness. Sauternes, the Sauvignon Blanc blend from Bordeaux, can age for decades due to the high sugar and acidity levels. Some Bordeaux Blancs are also age-worthy, though they are also blends. Oak-aged Sauvignon Blancs like the one produced by Merry Edwards can also age for several years.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sustainable &amp; Organic Sauvignon Blanc Production<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sustainability and organic practices have gained significant importance in the wine industry, and Sauvignon Blanc production has been embracing these values as well. Environmentally conscious consumers can find wineries that prioritize eco-friendly methods and organic farming, aiming to minimize their impact on the environment while producing high-quality wines.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Organic vineyards, for instance, avoid synthetic chemical inputs like pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. They rely on natural alternatives such as compost, cover crops, and biodynamic preparations to maintain soil health and fertility. These practices help promote biodiversity, protect beneficial insects, and encourage a balanced ecosystem.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Integrated pest management is another approach adopted by some wineries. This method focuses on monitoring and managing pests using a combination of biological, cultural, and chemical practices. By minimizing the use of chemical treatments, these vineyards can reduce their environmental footprint and protect the surrounding ecosystem.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Water conservation is a crucial aspect of sustainable wine production. Wineries may implement techniques such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and the use of drought-tolerant cover crops to optimize water usage and reduce waste.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Furthermore, energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources are becoming more prevalent in wine production. Solar panels, wind turbines, and energy-efficient equipment help wineries reduce their carbon emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Sustainable packaging and waste management practices are gaining traction among wineries making Sauvignon Blanc as well. Lightweight bottles, recycled materials, and eco-friendly packaging solutions minimize waste and lower the environmental impact of wine production.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try some of these great Sauvignon Blanc wine recommendations from around the world:<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/l19g\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Clos des Lunes, \u201cLune d\u2019Argent,\u201d<\/strong><\/a> Bordeaux, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/8gmg\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ch\u00e2teau Suduiraut, Sauternes<\/strong><\/a>, Bordeaux, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/z3i8\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Domaine Vacheron, \u201cLe Paradis,\u201d<\/strong><\/a> Sancerre, Loire, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/qmru\" target=\"_blank\">Beautiful, Canterbury<\/a><\/strong>, New Zealand<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/0cs9\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Zephyr, Marlborough<\/strong><\/a>, New Zealand<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/stkt\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Merry Edwards, Russian River Valley<\/strong><\/a>, Sonoma County, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/cehj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Honig<\/a><\/strong>, North Coast, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Similar Wines to Sauvignon Blanc<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For those who enjoy the crisp and refreshing flavors of Sauvignon Blanc, there are several other white grape varieties that offer similar characteristics and delightful tasting experiences. Here are a few suggestions for wine lovers looking to explore wines akin to Sauvignon Blanc:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Semillon<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Often blended with Sauvignon Blanc, particularly in Bordeaux, Semillon shares some similar flavor profiles. Semillon wines tend to be slightly more rounded and may exhibit flavors of lemon, green apple, and sometimes honey or lanolin, depending on the wine's age and region.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Verdejo<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Originating from Spain, particularly the Rueda region, Verdejo wines are known for their fresh and zesty character. These wines typically feature notes of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruits, along with a subtle herbaceous quality that can be reminiscent of Sauvignon Blanc.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Albari\u00f1o<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Hailing from the Galicia region in northwest Spain, Albari\u00f1o wines are celebrated for their high acidity and refreshing nature. They often display flavors of citrus, green apple, and stone fruits, complemented by a distinctive saline minerality that adds complexity and depth.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gruner Veltliner<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This Austrian grape variety produces wines with bright acidity and a similar herbaceous quality to Sauvignon Blanc. Gruner Veltliner wines often present flavors of green apple, citrus, and white pepper, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a zesty and intriguing white wine.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Vermentino<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Primarily grown in Italy, particularly in Sardinia and Tuscany, Vermentino wines are known for their crisp, refreshing character. These wines typically exhibit flavors of citrus, green apple, and pear, along with a pleasant minerality and sometimes a slightly bitter almond finish.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator {\"className\":\"is-style-dots\"} -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:shortcode -->\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\n<!-- \/wp:shortcode -->","post_title":"Sauvignon Blanc","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"sauvignon-blanc-wine-grape-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-05-05 12:27:59","post_modified_gmt":"2023-05-05 16:27:59","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/sauvignon-blanc\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"1","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1874,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"small\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Editor's Note:<\/strong> Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Chardonnay is a white wine grape variety native to Burgundy, France. It\u2019s currently the most popular white wine grape variety in the world and can have a diverse flavor profile depending on where it\u2019s grown and if oak is used during the aging process.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/table-of-contents {\"block_id\":\"8046e6d9\",\"classMigrate\":true,\"makeCollapsible\":true,\"initialCollapse\":true,\"mappingHeaders\":[true,true,true,true,true,true],\"borderStyle\":\"\",\"borderWidth\":\"\",\"borderRadius\":\"\",\"overallBorderTopWidth\":1,\"overallBorderLeftWidth\":1,\"overallBorderRightWidth\":1,\"overallBorderBottomWidth\":1,\"overallBorderTopLeftRadius\":6,\"overallBorderTopRightRadius\":6,\"overallBorderBottomLeftRadius\":6,\"overallBorderBottomRightRadius\":6,\"overallBorderStyle\":\"solid\",\"UAGDay\":[]} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a name=\"taste\"><\/a><strong>What Does Chardonnay Taste Like?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Chardonnay can be lean and acidic or rich and buttery depending on a variety of terroir and vinification conditions. In general, it can be leaner and brighter when it\u2019s from cooler regions like <strong>Burgundy<\/strong> and richer and more fruit-forward when it\u2019s from hotter <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/napa-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\">regions like Napa<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Classic notes that can be found in Chardonnays are apple, pear, lemon, apricot, ginger, melon, papaya, and white floral notes. When it\u2019s aged in oak or undergoes malolactic fermentation, there can also be buttery-toasty notes, which can sometimes be confused with flavors inherently found in the grape.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Unfortunately, the heavy-handed use of oak led some wine drinkers to abandon Chardonnay altogether, which is a shame since it shows beautifully when the oak notes are well integrated. Fermenting and aging in steel tanks can elicit the purer notes inherent to Chardonnay without intrusive oak notes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"align\":\"center\",\"id\":14964} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/chardonnay-vines-in-burgundy-winetraveler.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/chardonnay-vines-in-burgundy-winetraveler.jpg\" alt=\"Chardonnay Wine &amp; Grape Characteristics\" class=\"wp-image-14964\"\/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Aerial perspective of Chardonnay vines in Burgundy, France.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Chardonnay Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When it comes to pairings, think about the weight of the dish and the weight of the wine. Those brighter, more acidic Chardonnays work beautifully with seafood, including firm white fish, salmon, lobster, mussels, and shrimp. Avoid overly spicy sauces that overpower the fruit of the wine.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Richer Chardonnays also work well with poultry and pork, particularly those with creamy or buttery sauces. Chardonnay also loves pasta dishes like alfredo or primavera. Due to the apple notes of richer Chardonnays, it pairs naturally with autumnal produce like roasted pumpkin and Brussel sprouts.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Chardonnay<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Chardonnay hails from the <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/burgundy\/\" target=\"_blank\">Burgundy region of France<\/a><\/strong>, where it is arguably still at its finest. The limestone-rich soil with fossil deposits lends the distinctive minerality that can be found in white Burgundies, particularly <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/chablis-wine-taste-region-burgundy\/\" target=\"_blank\">Chablis<\/a><\/strong>. Chardonnay is one of the grapes that make up sparkling wines in neighboring <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/champagne\/\" target=\"_blank\">Champagne<\/a><\/strong> and can be found in small plantings in other regions of France like the <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/loire-valley-wine-region\/\" target=\"_blank\">Loire Valley<\/a><\/strong>. It also can work well in <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/italy\" target=\"_blank\">Italy<\/a><\/strong> because it can thrive in a variety of climates.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Outside of Europe, Chardonnay has flourished in <strong>California<\/strong>, particularly in <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/california\/sonoma-itinerary-3-days\/\" target=\"_blank\">Sonoma<\/a><\/strong> and <strong>Santa Barbara County<\/strong>. It also has worked well in New York State, both on <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/long-island\/\" target=\"_blank\">Long Island<\/a><\/strong> and along the <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/new-york\/niagara-escarpment-buffalo-itinerary-top-wineries-restaurants-hotels\/\" target=\"_blank\">Niagara Escarpment<\/a><\/strong>, and throughout <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/oregon\" target=\"_blank\">Oregon<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/washington-state\" target=\"_blank\">Washington<\/a><\/strong>. <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/chile\/\" target=\"_blank\">Chile<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/argentina\" target=\"_blank\">Argentina<\/a><\/strong> have also produced some lovely examples on Chardonnay, though they do tend to be on the more buttery side.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Chardonnay Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Because of its naturally high acidity, Chardonnay is very age-worthy, particularly when it\u2019s from cooler regions that help maintain the higher acidity levels. As it ages, that zippy acidity breaks down and evolves into softer, more nuanced wines. Though commonly aged in oak, it\u2019s not necessary to do so because steel tanks or stone cisterns allow the wine to age without imparting an oak influence. When aged in oak, newer oak will have the strongest influence while older barrels will soften the wine and impart a more subtle oak flavor (if detectable at all).<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The best Chardonnays can age for decades, as can the best Champagnes. Most inexpensive Chardonnays are meant to be enjoyed more immediately, though even they can age a bit if the acidity levels are high enough.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Recommended Chardonnay Wines to Buy Online from Around the World <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/hj9w\" target=\"_blank\">Liquid Farm \u2018Golden Slope\u2019 Chardonnay<\/a><\/strong>, Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/fh7x\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Hanzell Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a>, Sonoma Valley, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/j4sg\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Jean-Paul Brun Domaine des Terres Dorees<\/strong><\/a>, Beaujolais Blanc, Beaujolais, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/nalf\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Domaine Christian Moreau, Chablis<\/strong><\/a>, Burgundy, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/nomq\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pio Cesare, \u2018L\u2019Altro\u2019 Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a>, Piedmont, Italy<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/rrm3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>El Enemigo Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a>, Mendoza, Argentina<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions about Chardonnay Wine<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/faq {\"block_id\":\"36d72526\",\"enableSchemaSupport\":true,\"borderStyle\":\"\",\"borderWidth\":\"\",\"borderRadius\":\"\",\"borderColor\":\"\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"schema\":\"{\\u0022@context\\u0022:\\u0022https:\/\/schema.org\\u0022,\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022FAQPage\\u0022,\\u0022@id\\u0022:\\u0022https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\\u0022,\\u0022mainEntity\\u0022:[{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Question\\u0022,\\u0022name\\u0022:\\u0022What does Chardonnay wine taste like?\\u0022,\\u0022acceptedAnswer\\u0022:{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Answer\\u0022,\\u0022text\\u0022:\\u0022The taste of Chardonnay can vary greatly depending on the region in which it is produced and the winemaking techniques employed. Generally, Chardonnay wines exhibit a medium to full body and encompass flavors such as apple, pear, citrus, and oak. The use of malolactic fermentation in some Chardonnays creates a buttery or creamy texture that further enhances the wine's complexity.\\u0022}},{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Question\\u0022,\\u0022name\\u0022:\\u0022What is Chardonnay wine and where is it produced?\\u0022,\\u0022acceptedAnswer\\u0022:{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Answer\\u0022,\\u0022text\\u0022:\\u0022Chardonnay is a well-known white wine that originates from the Chardonnay grape variety. As one of the most widely consumed wines across the globe, it is produced in numerous countries such as France, the United States, Australia, and Chile. Each region's unique terroir lends distinctive flavors and characteristics to the wine, making Chardonnay incredibly diverse and adaptable.\\u0022}},{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Question\\u0022,\\u0022name\\u0022:\\u0022Should Chardonnay be served chilled or at room temperature?\\u0022,\\u0022acceptedAnswer\\u0022:{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Answer\\u0022,\\u0022text\\u0022:\\u0022When it comes to serving Chardonnay, it is best to serve it chilled but not excessively cold. The ideal temperature range for this wine is between 45\u00b0F and 50\u00b0F (7\u00b0C and 10\u00b0C). If served too cold, the wine's flavors and aromas may become muted and less enjoyable.\\u0022}},{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Question\\u0022,\\u0022name\\u0022:\\u0022What foods pair well with Chardonnay?\\u0022,\\u0022acceptedAnswer\\u0022:{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Answer\\u0022,\\u0022text\\u0022:\\u0022Chardonnay is a highly versatile wine when it comes to food pairings. It complements a wide range of dishes, from seafood and poultry to creamy pasta recipes. Its compatibility with various cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and goat cheese, makes it a popular choice for cheese boards and appetizers.\\u0022}},{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Question\\u0022,\\u0022name\\u0022:\\u0022Is all Chardonnay oaked?\\u0022,\\u0022acceptedAnswer\\u0022:{\\u0022@type\\u0022:\\u0022Answer\\u0022,\\u0022text\\u0022:\\u0022While many people associate Chardonnay with oak flavors, not all Chardonnays are aged in oak barrels. Some winemakers opt for fermenting and aging the wine in stainless steel tanks, yielding a crisper, fruitier wine. Others use oak barrels to imbue the wine with vanilla, caramel, and toast flavors. In some cases, Chardonnay wines are a blend of both oaked and unoaked wines, striking a balance between the two styles.\\u0022}}]}\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\",\"overallBorderTopWidth\":1,\"overallBorderLeftWidth\":1,\"overallBorderRightWidth\":1,\"overallBorderBottomWidth\":1,\"overallBorderTopLeftRadius\":2,\"overallBorderTopRightRadius\":2,\"overallBorderBottomLeftRadius\":2,\"overallBorderBottomRightRadius\":2,\"overallBorderStyle\":\"solid\",\"overallBorderColor\":\"#D2D2D2\",\"UAGDay\":[]} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-36d72526 uagb-faq-icon-row uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-true uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height\" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does Chardonnay wine taste like?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The taste of Chardonnay can vary greatly depending on the region in which it is produced and the winemaking techniques employed. Generally, Chardonnay wines exhibit a medium to full body and encompass flavors such as apple, pear, citrus, and oak. The use of malolactic fermentation in some Chardonnays creates a buttery or creamy texture that further enhances the wine's complexity.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is Chardonnay wine and where is it produced?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Chardonnay is a well-known white wine that originates from the Chardonnay grape variety. As one of the most widely consumed wines across the globe, it is produced in numerous countries such as France, the United States, Australia, and Chile. Each region's unique terroir lends distinctive flavors and characteristics to the wine, making Chardonnay incredibly diverse and adaptable.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Should Chardonnay be served chilled or at room temperature?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"When it comes to serving Chardonnay, it is best to serve it chilled but not excessively cold. The ideal temperature range for this wine is between 45\u00b0F and 50\u00b0F (7\u00b0C and 10\u00b0C). If served too cold, the wine's flavors and aromas may become muted and less enjoyable.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What foods pair well with Chardonnay?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Chardonnay is a highly versatile wine when it comes to food pairings. It complements a wide range of dishes, from seafood and poultry to creamy pasta recipes. Its compatibility with various cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and goat cheese, makes it a popular choice for cheese boards and appetizers.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is all Chardonnay oaked?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"While many people associate Chardonnay with oak flavors, not all Chardonnays are aged in oak barrels. Some winemakers opt for fermenting and aging the wine in stainless steel tanks, yielding a crisper, fruitier wine. Others use oak barrels to imbue the wine with vanilla, caramel, and toast flavors. In some cases, Chardonnay wines are a blend of both oaked and unoaked wines, striking a balance between the two styles.\"}}]}<\/script><!-- wp:uagb\/faq-child {\"block_id\":\"ca042c6b\",\"question\":\"What does Chardonnay wine taste like?\",\"answer\":\"The taste of Chardonnay can vary greatly depending on the region in which it is produced and the winemaking techniques employed. Generally, Chardonnay wines exhibit a medium to full body and encompass flavors such as apple, pear, citrus, and oak. The use of malolactic fermentation in some Chardonnays creates a buttery or creamy texture that further enhances the wine's complexity.\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-ca042c6b\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\"><path d=\"M482.3 192C516.5 192 576 221 576 256C576 292 516.5 320 482.3 320H365.7L265.2 495.9C259.5 505.8 248.9 512 237.4 512H181.2C170.6 512 162.9 501.8 165.8 491.6L214.9 320H112L68.8 377.6C65.78 381.6 61.04 384 56 384H14.03C6.284 384 0 377.7 0 369.1C0 368.7 .1818 367.4 .5398 366.1L32 256L.5398 145.9C.1818 144.6 0 143.3 0 142C0 134.3 6.284 128 14.03 128H56C61.04 128 65.78 130.4 68.8 134.4L112 192H214.9L165.8 20.4C162.9 10.17 170.6 0 181.2 0H237.4C248.9 0 259.5 6.153 265.2 16.12L365.7 192H482.3z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><h3 class=\"uagb-question\">What does Chardonnay wine taste like?<\/h3><\/div><p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">The taste of Chardonnay can vary greatly depending on the region in which it is produced and the winemaking techniques employed. Generally, Chardonnay wines exhibit a medium to full body and encompass flavors such as apple, pear, citrus, and oak. The use of malolactic fermentation in some Chardonnays creates a buttery or creamy texture that further enhances the wine's complexity.<\/p><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq-child -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/faq-child {\"block_id\":\"4f5d3b38\",\"question\":\"What is Chardonnay wine and where is it produced?\",\"answer\":\"Chardonnay is a well-known white wine that originates from the Chardonnay grape variety. As one of the most widely consumed wines across the globe, it is produced in numerous countries such as France, the United States, Australia, and Chile. Each region's unique terroir lends distinctive flavors and characteristics to the wine, making Chardonnay incredibly diverse and adaptable.\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-4f5d3b38\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\"><path d=\"M482.3 192C516.5 192 576 221 576 256C576 292 516.5 320 482.3 320H365.7L265.2 495.9C259.5 505.8 248.9 512 237.4 512H181.2C170.6 512 162.9 501.8 165.8 491.6L214.9 320H112L68.8 377.6C65.78 381.6 61.04 384 56 384H14.03C6.284 384 0 377.7 0 369.1C0 368.7 .1818 367.4 .5398 366.1L32 256L.5398 145.9C.1818 144.6 0 143.3 0 142C0 134.3 6.284 128 14.03 128H56C61.04 128 65.78 130.4 68.8 134.4L112 192H214.9L165.8 20.4C162.9 10.17 170.6 0 181.2 0H237.4C248.9 0 259.5 6.153 265.2 16.12L365.7 192H482.3z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><h3 class=\"uagb-question\">What is Chardonnay wine and where is it produced?<\/h3><\/div><p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">Chardonnay is a well-known white wine that originates from the Chardonnay grape variety. As one of the most widely consumed wines across the globe, it is produced in numerous countries such as France, the United States, Australia, and Chile. Each region's unique terroir lends distinctive flavors and characteristics to the wine, making Chardonnay incredibly diverse and adaptable.<\/p><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq-child -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/faq-child {\"block_id\":\"31b07e31\",\"question\":\"Should Chardonnay be served chilled or at room temperature?\",\"answer\":\"When it comes to serving Chardonnay, it is best to serve it chilled but not excessively cold. The ideal temperature range for this wine is between 45\u00b0F and 50\u00b0F (7\u00b0C and 10\u00b0C). If served too cold, the wine's flavors and aromas may become muted and less enjoyable.\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-31b07e31\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\"><path d=\"M482.3 192C516.5 192 576 221 576 256C576 292 516.5 320 482.3 320H365.7L265.2 495.9C259.5 505.8 248.9 512 237.4 512H181.2C170.6 512 162.9 501.8 165.8 491.6L214.9 320H112L68.8 377.6C65.78 381.6 61.04 384 56 384H14.03C6.284 384 0 377.7 0 369.1C0 368.7 .1818 367.4 .5398 366.1L32 256L.5398 145.9C.1818 144.6 0 143.3 0 142C0 134.3 6.284 128 14.03 128H56C61.04 128 65.78 130.4 68.8 134.4L112 192H214.9L165.8 20.4C162.9 10.17 170.6 0 181.2 0H237.4C248.9 0 259.5 6.153 265.2 16.12L365.7 192H482.3z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><h3 class=\"uagb-question\">Should Chardonnay be served chilled or at room temperature?<\/h3><\/div><p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">When it comes to serving Chardonnay, it is best to serve it chilled but not excessively cold. The ideal temperature range for this wine is between 45\u00b0F and 50\u00b0F (7\u00b0C and 10\u00b0C). If served too cold, the wine's flavors and aromas may become muted and less enjoyable.<\/p><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq-child -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/faq-child {\"block_id\":\"2ecdaea6\",\"question\":\"What foods pair well with Chardonnay?\",\"answer\":\"Chardonnay is a highly versatile wine when it comes to food pairings. It complements a wide range of dishes, from seafood and poultry to creamy pasta recipes. Its compatibility with various cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and goat cheese, makes it a popular choice for cheese boards and appetizers.\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-2ecdaea6\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\"><path d=\"M482.3 192C516.5 192 576 221 576 256C576 292 516.5 320 482.3 320H365.7L265.2 495.9C259.5 505.8 248.9 512 237.4 512H181.2C170.6 512 162.9 501.8 165.8 491.6L214.9 320H112L68.8 377.6C65.78 381.6 61.04 384 56 384H14.03C6.284 384 0 377.7 0 369.1C0 368.7 .1818 367.4 .5398 366.1L32 256L.5398 145.9C.1818 144.6 0 143.3 0 142C0 134.3 6.284 128 14.03 128H56C61.04 128 65.78 130.4 68.8 134.4L112 192H214.9L165.8 20.4C162.9 10.17 170.6 0 181.2 0H237.4C248.9 0 259.5 6.153 265.2 16.12L365.7 192H482.3z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><h3 class=\"uagb-question\">What foods pair well with Chardonnay?<\/h3><\/div><p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">Chardonnay is a highly versatile wine when it comes to food pairings. It complements a wide range of dishes, from seafood and poultry to creamy pasta recipes. Its compatibility with various cheeses, such as brie, camembert, and goat cheese, makes it a popular choice for cheese boards and appetizers.<\/p><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq-child -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/faq-child {\"block_id\":\"608d50aa\",\"question\":\"Is all Chardonnay oaked?\",\"answer\":\"While many people associate Chardonnay with oak flavors, not all Chardonnays are aged in oak barrels. Some winemakers opt for fermenting and aging the wine in stainless steel tanks, yielding a crisper, fruitier wine. Others use oak barrels to imbue the wine with vanilla, caramel, and toast flavors. In some cases, Chardonnay wines are a blend of both oaked and unoaked wines, striking a balance between the two styles.\",\"icon\":\"plane\",\"headingTag\":\"h3\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-608d50aa\" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\"><span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 576 512\"><path d=\"M482.3 192C516.5 192 576 221 576 256C576 292 516.5 320 482.3 320H365.7L265.2 495.9C259.5 505.8 248.9 512 237.4 512H181.2C170.6 512 162.9 501.8 165.8 491.6L214.9 320H112L68.8 377.6C65.78 381.6 61.04 384 56 384H14.03C6.284 384 0 377.7 0 369.1C0 368.7 .1818 367.4 .5398 366.1L32 256L.5398 145.9C.1818 144.6 0 143.3 0 142C0 134.3 6.284 128 14.03 128H56C61.04 128 65.78 130.4 68.8 134.4L112 192H214.9L165.8 20.4C162.9 10.17 170.6 0 181.2 0H237.4C248.9 0 259.5 6.153 265.2 16.12L365.7 192H482.3z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><h3 class=\"uagb-question\">Is all Chardonnay oaked?<\/h3><\/div><p class=\"uagb-faq-content\">While many people associate Chardonnay with oak flavors, not all Chardonnays are aged in oak barrels. Some winemakers opt for fermenting and aging the wine in stainless steel tanks, yielding a crisper, fruitier wine. Others use oak barrels to imbue the wine with vanilla, caramel, and toast flavors. In some cases, Chardonnay wines are a blend of both oaked and unoaked wines, striking a balance between the two styles.<\/p><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq-child --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:uagb\/faq -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Written by Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"small\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:shortcode -->\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\n<!-- \/wp:shortcode -->","post_title":"Chardonnay","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-09-27 12:01:24","post_modified_gmt":"2023-09-27 16:01:24","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/chardonnay\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1905,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<div class=\"hasHiddenText\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Editor's Note: Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\nCommonly referred to\u00a0as the \u201cnoble grape\u201d or \u201cred burgundy,\u201d Pinot Noir is a blue-tinged\u00a0grape variety\u00a0that\u2019s classified under\u00a0the\u00a0vitis vinifera\u00a0species of grape vine. This fussy grape\u00a0makes a popular red wine and originates from <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/burgundy\/\" target=\"_blank\">Burgundy, France<\/a><\/strong>. A French designation, the word\u00a0<strong>\u201cPinot\u201d translates to \u201cPine,\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0as a reference to the way the grapes cluster together on the vine, similar to a pinecone.\u00a0<strong>\u201cNoir,\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0also French,\u00a0<strong>translates to \u201cblack\u201d<\/strong>, referring to the color of the dark, thin-skinned grape.\r\n\r\n<strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nWe can trace the drinking of Pinot Noir wines back to sometime\u00a0during the\u00a0first century \u2013 when the ancient Romans recorded drinking it not long after they captured much of the Gaul region \u2013 which is now France.\r\n\r\nThere is no definitive evidence as to when exactly the grape was first fermented and enjoyed, though needless to say it has been around for a long while.\r\n\r\nWhile Burgundy continues to produce some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world, high-quality Pinot Noir\u00a0is grown and made today in\u00a0many cooler climates around the world.\r\n\r\nIn fact, a recent worldwide tasting has shown that certain <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/new-zealand\/\" target=\"_blank\">wine regions within New Zealand<\/a><\/strong> are producing some of the <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.forbes.com\/sites\/katiebell\/2013\/10\/07\/a-global-tasting-proves-new-zealand-pinot-noir-is-the-worlds-best-value\/\" target=\"_blank\">best value Pinot\u2019s in the world<\/a>.\r\n\r\nWhile demand for this light red wine has increased dramatically, the grape itself tends to be finicky and relatively difficult to grow. As such, prices for the wine have increased in recent years.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Pinot Noir Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\nTypically, younger Pinot Noirs taste less complex, and red fruit notes tend to be the most prominent. As Pinot Noirs age, their complexity is enhanced, revealing more earthy and smokey mineral notes.\r\n\r\nPinot Noir classically displays bright red cherry, raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, plum, currant, and pomegranate notes. Warmer climate Pinots tend to lean more towards richer black cherry. Secondary notes typically include gravel, chalk, mushrooms, earth, spice, and light oak.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Pinot Noir Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nFor many, Pinot Noir is an any-occasion wine. It\u2019s light enough that it can be enjoyed throughout the summer months and can be paired with almost any fish. Pinot Noir is also diverse enough in flavor that it works well with some meats and cheeses.\r\n\r\nPinot works beautifully with classic French dishes like cassoulet or soupe \u00e0 l\u2019oignon gratinee. Lighter Pinots can also work with salade Ni\u00e7oise.\r\n\r\nPinots pair well with heavier fatty, oily fish, like salmon and sardines as well as aged cheddar and gouda. It\u2019s become a favorite for holiday meals with roasted turkey or ham along with the many side dishes like roasted vegetables and gravies.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Pinot Noir<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nA red, fickle grape, originating and made famous in Burgundy, France, Pinot Noir is now grown in many countries around the world. In fact, Burgundy almost exclusively grows Pinot Noir as its sole red wine grape variety. Needless to say, they\u2019ve gotten pretty good at it over the years!\r\n\r\nPinot Noir vines require soil that is both aerated and drains well for optimal growth. These vines are typically rooted in soil with high concentrations of gravel, chalk, and\/or clay. Climate-wise, the vine needs warm (but not hot) sun-filled days and crisp cool evenings with minimal weather variation before harvesting.\r\n\r\nThe grape itself has a thin skin (hence low tannins), which unfortunately makes it easily susceptible to disease and rot. All things considered, winemakers must watch their crops closely. Even the most experienced Pinot Noir winemakers can have trouble growing this variety, though some terroirs make for easier cultivation than others.\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<strong>RELATED:<\/strong> <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/oregon\/willamette-valley-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\">Taste Pinot Noir in Oregon's Willamette Valley, Which is on Burgundy's Parallel<\/a><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Pinot Noir Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\nDue to the high acid, Pinots can age for many years, particularly when from cooler climates like Burgundy. In fact, the age-worthiness of Burgundies is why they remain highly sought-after and collectible wines year after year.\r\n\r\nWhen Pinot Noir grapes are overripe, the resulting wines lack the acidity necessary for aging. That doesn\u2019t mean these can\u2019t be enjoyed immediately because they\u2019re typically very approachable!\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try these gorgeous expressions of Pinot Noir from around the world: <\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/winery\/maison-joseph-drouhin\/\" target=\"_blank\">Joseph Drouhin, Beaune, \u2018Clos des Mouches,\u2019<\/a><\/strong> Premier Cru, C\u00f4te de Beaune, C\u00f4te d\u2019Or, Burgundy, France<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/nvvq\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Faiveley, Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru<\/strong><\/a><strong>,<\/strong> Gevrey-Chambertin, C\u00f4te de Nuits, C\u00f4te d\u2019Or, Burgundy, France<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/500u\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Jean-Fran\u00e7ois Merieau, \u2018Hexagonales,\u2019<\/strong><\/a> Loire, France<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/mmpq\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bergstr\u00f6m, Gregory ranch, Yamhill-Carlton District,<\/strong><\/a> Willamette Valley, Oregon<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/a201\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Foxen, Santa Maria Valley<\/strong><\/a>, Central Coast, California<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/kycl\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Merry Edwards, Russian River<\/strong><\/a>, Sonoma County, California<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/2z1p\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Escarpment, \u2018Kupe,\u2019 Martinborough<\/strong><\/a>, New Zealand<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/winery\/ravines-wine-cellars\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ravines, Finger Lakes<\/a><\/strong>, New York<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>","post_title":"Pinot Noir","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pinot-noir-wine-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-03 15:44:54","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-03 19:44:54","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/pinot-noir\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"2","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1916,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"","post_title":"Syrah","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"draft","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"syrah","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2018-03-27 14:36:42","post_modified_gmt":"2018-03-27 14:36:42","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/syrah\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1882,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:07","post_content":"<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div class=\"hasHiddenText\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Editor's Note: Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/span><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Grenache is a black grape varietal used to produce both lean and medium-bodied, black and blue fruit-forward red wines. While it\u2019s most famously grown throughout <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/france\" target=\"_blank\">France<\/a><\/strong> (France currently holds the most acreage of Grenache at over 230,000), the grape was thought to have originated in <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/spain\" target=\"_blank\">Spain<\/a><\/strong>, where it\u2019s called \u2018Garnacha\u2019 and thrives due to its tolerance to hot and arid climates.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>However, in a relatively recent DNA analysis done on fossilized\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/2paragraphs.com\/2014\/11\/dna-analysis-reveals-wine-originated-in-italy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cannonau red grape seeds found in Sardinia<\/a>\u00a0(Red Cannonau is another name for Grenache in Sardinia), it was determined that the Grenache grape variety likely originated on this Italian Mediterranean island.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Grenache is a fun grape variety in that it\u2019s spicy, grounded with soft tannins, fruit-forward and medium-bodied. This allows for wines to be paired with an endless assortment of food.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Like its Spanish cousin <span style=\"color: #800000;\"><strong><a style=\"color: #800000;\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tempranillo-wine-taste\/\" target=\"_blank\">Tempranillo<\/a><\/strong><\/span>, Grenache wines will have a lower viscosity than, for example, Syrah. It typically maintains a black cherry and red garnet color in the glass while being aromatic with strawberry and plum on the nose.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A large portion of Grenache and Garnacha wine drinkers around the world appreciate this grape for its drinkability while young. Youthful Grenache gives way to fruit-forwardness and a spicy nature, all adding to Grenache\u2019s drinkability. However, it is worth mentioning that many old-world winemakers are discovering how much more savory this wine can become if it were to be aged. While trying to find a balance between the young flavor attributes, some vintners note that it\u2019s within aged Grenache and Garnacha that you <em>may<\/em>&nbsp;find the most heart in this variety.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Grenache Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It is important to note that depending on the region Grenache is grown and how it is aged, it can vary in flavor, backbone, and intensity.&nbsp;Classic fruit notes include plum, bright strawberry, black cherry, and currant, with white and black pepper, Asian spice, cocoa, mint, black tea, and a granite-shale minerality. When it\u2019s fuller in body, the deeper fruit notes are more pronounced but when it\u2019s lighter, expect more of those high-toned notes like strawberry and currant.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Grenache Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Grenache is very versatile and food friendly. Pork, duck, Mexican dishes, Indian dishes, lamb meatballs, swordfish tacos, and flank steak all work well. If you're into meat, try going with leaner cuts and no shortage of seasoning. Mexican food, Cajun-spiced heavy-bodied fish, and spicy Indian dishes are all equally perfect Grenache food pairings.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For vegetarian dishes, anything from frittata to paella can work if the seasoning is up to task.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Grenache<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Currently, Grenache is grown vastly throughout the Rhone region of France and Central to Northeastern Spain \u2013 West of <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spain\/catalonia-wine-regions-overview\/\" target=\"_blank\">Catalonia<\/a><\/strong>. It grows well in dry, warm, and well-drained soil.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spain\/priorat-wine-region-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\">Priorat, Spain<\/a><\/strong>, Garnatxa vines thrive in schist and slate-based soil where they strain for their nutriment. Ultimately, these vines produce rich and complex wines with elevated alcohol content. Sometimes over 17%!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/rhone-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\">Rh\u00f4ne<\/a><\/strong> and Catalonia provide unique granite, limestone, and shale soil compositions \u2013 which retain heat well. This further enhances not only Grenaches\u2019 ability to grow well but also its flavor profile.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>New World wine-growing regions throughout Southern California and the <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/travel-resources\/best-texas-hill-country-wineries-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\">Hill Country of Central Texas<\/a><\/strong> have also had strong success in producing Grenache. The climate and soil makeup in these regions is similar to that of Southern France and Central Spain.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Grenache Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Bigger, bolder versions of Grenache are very age-worthy, depending on how they\u2019re crafted. Grenache-based Rh\u00f4ne blends can age for years, as can higher-end Garnacha from Spain. Cannonaus are often meant to be drunk young but they do have the heft to fare well over time.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try some of these great Grenache wines from around the world: <\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/881h\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Alto Moncayo, Veraton<\/strong><\/a>, Campor de Borja, Spain<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/xdor\" target=\"_blank\">Espectacle, Montsant<\/a><\/strong>, Spain<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/z52s\" target=\"_blank\">Chateau de Saint Cosme, Little James Basket Press<\/a><\/strong>, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/s11t\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Le Paradou<\/strong><\/a>, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/mk5f\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>A Tribute to Grace, Besson Vineyard<\/strong><\/a>, Santa Cruz Mountains, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/nrbi\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>An Approach to Relaxation, Sucette<\/strong><\/a>, Barossa Valley, Australia<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:tadv\/classic-paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:shortcode -->\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\n<!-- \/wp:shortcode -->","post_title":"Grenache","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"grenache-wine-grape-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-11-14 09:16:34","post_modified_gmt":"2023-11-14 14:16:34","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/grenache\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":3221,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-05-18 13:02:30","post_date_gmt":"2018-05-18 13:02:30","post_content":"<div class=\"hasHiddenText\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Editor's Note: Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\nThe Tempranillo grape variety has been around for at least 2,000 years. While there is no definitive proof of its origins, the majority of vitis vinifera grape vine species, which includes Tempranillo, originate from ancient Phoenician cultures near modern-day <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/lebanon\/\" target=\"_blank\">Lebanon<\/a><\/strong>. There is some <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/experiences\/archeological-sites\" target=\"_blank\">archaeological evidence<\/a><\/strong> that shows Tempranillo began to grow in Spain somewhere between 500 and 900 B.C.\r\n\r\n<strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nDepending on where it\u2019s produced, Tempranillo is often blended with other varieties along the lines of <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/merlot-wine-taste-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\">Merlot<\/a><\/strong> or <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\">Garnacha<\/a><\/strong>. These varieties add additional complexity since for some, Tempranillo appears more neutral on the palate compared to grapes like Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon.\r\n\r\nAlso worth noting is how Tempranillo has been received in some surprising locations outside of Spain. Many new world regions, such as the <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/travel-resources\/best-texas-hill-country-wineries-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\">Texas Hill Country<\/a><\/strong> in the United States -- about an hour northwest of Austin -- have found this grape to thrive throughout their vineyards. The soil and stark climate changes are similar to that of north-central Spain, and Texas now considers Tempranillo\u00a0to be its signature grape.\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<strong>RELATED:<\/strong> <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spain\/22-best-rioja-wineries-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\">Want to Taste Tempranillo on a Vineyard? Visit Rioja for a True Expression<\/a><\/strong>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a><\/strong><strong>What Does Tempranillo Taste Like?<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nTempranillo typically displays brighter fruit notes like black cherry, red currant, plum, cranberry, tomato, and subtle strawberry notes. It can show secondary tones of tobacco, mushroom, black pepper, leather, and herbal notes with limestone, silt, or clay minerality.\r\n\r\nTempranillo packs a bold and structured flavor with a low viscosity (in other words, the liquid itself isn\u2019t \u2018thick\u2019). Tempranillo grapes have slightly thinner skins when compared to other black grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon or <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chambourcin\/\" target=\"_blank\">Teinturier varieties<\/a><\/strong>. Skin density plays a big part during fermentation in determining the viscosity of the wine. Tempranillo is perfect for those who enjoy complex wines that aren\u2019t overly heavy.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a><\/strong><strong>Tempranillo Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nSince Tempranillo wines tend to have unique spice notes attached to them, we like pairing them with meat. In particular, shoulder cuts of beef, filet mignon, or braised pork ribs. While it does excessively well when paired alongside meat, lighter-bodied Tempranillo also goes quite nicely with seasoned poultry, in particular chicken, duck, or quail.\r\n\r\nFor fish, this grape requires a sturdier style like salmon - pair it with salmon and four cheese risotto and you can\u2019t go wrong.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a><\/strong><strong>Climate and Terroir for Tempranillo<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nTempranillo is most successful in climates that transition from cool to hot during the growing season. It\u2019s a hardy grape, and because of its moderately thick skin it can handle high altitudes and prolonged cold. Regions like Rioja and <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/ribera-del-duero\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ribera del Duero<\/a><\/strong> in Spain provide this sort of climate. Temperatures during the day in these regions can average between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, while at night the temperate can drop 30-40 degrees. This vine has adapted over centuries to handle the fluctuation and in turn deliver a bold flavored wine. The rocky terrain in these regions also adds some mineral notes to Tempranillo wines.\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<strong>RELATED:<\/strong> <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/30-best-bordeaux-wineries-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tempranillo is Now Being Tested in Regions Like Bordeaux Due to Climate Change<\/strong><\/a>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a><\/strong><strong>How is Tempranillo Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\nIn accordance with many <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spain\/wine-regions-of-spain-information-do-doca-doq\/\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish wine making traditions<\/a><\/strong>, Tempranillo is often aged in oak for extended periods of time. You\u2019ll see many Spanish wines, whether 100% Tempranillo, or Tempranillo blends, carry the designation of\u00a0<strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-resources\/crianza-reserva-gran-reserva-difference-spanish-wine\/\" target=\"_blank\">Crianza, Reserva or Gran Reserva<\/a><\/strong>. These designations denote how long the wine was aged in general, but also how long specifically it was aged in an oak \u2018cask\u2019 or barrel.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"recommendation\"><\/a><\/strong><strong>Try some of these delicious Tempranillo wines from around the world: <\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/o15t\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bodegas Vega Sicilia<\/strong><\/a>, \u2018Unico Reserva Especial,\u2019 Ribera del Duero, Spain<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/sfh0\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Bodegas Muga, \u2018Gran Reserva Prado Enea,\u2019<\/strong><\/a> Rioja, Spain<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/j5q1\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Artadi, \u2018La Pozo de Ballesteros,\u2019<\/strong><\/a> Rioja, Spain<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/p1ss\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Lopes de Heredia, \u2018Rioja Vi\u00f1a Tondonia Reserva,\u2019<\/strong><\/a> Rioja, Spain<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/zk8n\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Parador, Napa Valley,<\/strong><\/a> California<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/x7nw\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>The Fableist, Paso Robles<\/strong><\/a>, Central Coast, California<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>","post_title":"Tempranillo","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"tempranillo-wine-taste","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-03 15:40:58","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-03 19:40:58","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/?post_type=grape&#038;p=3221","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1894,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mourv\u00e8dre<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, also known as Monastrell, originated in Spain and is thought to have been brought to the region by the Phoenicians in the 1st century BCE. While the grape is not as well known as a standalone varietal, it is popular for blending in wines from regions like <span style=\"color: #800000;\"><a style=\"color: #800000;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/chateauneuf-du-pape\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Ch\u00e2teauneuf du Pape<\/strong><\/a><\/span> in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/rhone-valley\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Rh\u00f4ne<\/strong><\/a>. This is due in part to the grape often producing wine that is fairly tannic and high in alcohol.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><strong>The Tasting Notes of Mourv\u00e8dre <\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mourv\u00e8dre <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">prefers very warm weather and adequate water to produce wines that show what this grape can really do. When done well, wines can exhibit flavors reminiscent of red berries, farmyard, wild game, earthy notes and red fruit. If grown in less than appropriate conditions, the wine can become jammy and overly herbaceous.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Care is required when growing and producing <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mourv\u00e8dre<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The grape grows in tight, compact clusters that make it susceptible to disease and mildew. To prevent the wine from becoming weak and overly herbaceous, it needs to be picked when sugar levels are slightly higher, though too high can lead to higher alcohol. These wines are also prone to oxidation and reductive flavors if care is not taken during the winemaking process.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><strong>Wine Growing Regions for Mourv\u00e8dre<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The grape thrives in Spain, where it is known as <em><strong>Monastrell<\/strong><\/em> and, until recently, was the fourth most commonly planted red grape varietal. It is widely planted in Eastern Spain, and is one of the primary grapes in the regions of <em><strong>Jumilla, Yecla, Valencia, Almansa<\/strong><\/em> and <em><strong>Alicante<\/strong><\/em>. It is often blended with Grenache or Cinsault to soften the tannins and intense perfume flavors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In France, Mourv\u00e8dre is grown mainly in the Southern Rhone, where it is consistently warm and can thrive in the heart. In classics like Ch\u00e2teauneuf-du-Pape, herbaceous and spicy Mourv\u00e8dre is used to add weight and structure to a blend of <span style=\"color: #800000;\"><a style=\"color: #800000;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/span>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape-varieties\/syrah-grape-characteristics-shiraz-taste\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Syrah<\/strong><\/a> and Cinsault. <\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Spain has been removing plantings of Mourv\u00e8dre to grow more Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, France is increasing the use of the grape both as a single varietal and blending grape. In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/bandol-wineries-to-visit-itinerary-bike\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Bandol, an appellation located in Southeast France<\/strong><\/a> in Provence, Mourv\u00e8dre is king. Many have come to associate this region as being the pinnacle of Mourv\u00e8dre production. The appellation requires that red wines include at least 50% of the grape, which adds spicy and earthy characteristics.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the United States, Mourv\u00e8dre is grown in hotter areas of California and Washington State, though it is also planted in Arizona, Missouri, New Mexico, Texas and Virginia. These United States styles are less tannic, medium bodied, and have increased wild-game and spice notes. It is often used in Rhone-style blends, and rarely is seen as a standalone. It is used in a similar way in Australia, in GSM style blends, and may also be used to create cask and fortified wines.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><strong>Mourv\u00e8dre Wines &amp; Blends to Try<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/yu7z\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>Domaine Tempier Bandol Rouge<\/strong><\/a> is a great place to start your Mourv\u00e8dre tasting, as Bandol is known for this grape in particular. It\u2019s everything you\u2019d expect from a Mourv\u00e8dre dominated wine: spicy, earthy, gamey, with a complement of herbal, chocolate and red fruit notes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a comparison, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/bsjt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Barahonda Monastrell<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0is a 100% Mourv\u00e8dre, and has fascinating notes of smoke and licorice. This winery produces a numbers of quality levels, from an affordable option to some that are more expensive yet complex and age-worthy.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another blend option that is worth trying -- if you\u2019re ready to splurge -- is any Ch\u00e2teauneuf-du-Pape. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/n6qz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Domaine de la Janasse<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/hec7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Domaine le Clos du Caillou<\/a><\/strong> are some of the top producers. If you\u2019re looking for something a little more affordable, try a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/2bq2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Minervois<\/a><\/strong>, we love <strong>Gerard Bertrand\u2019s<\/strong>.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Want to try an <strong>Arizona Mourvedre? <\/strong><\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.runewines.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rune Wines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is producing one that is bright with red plum and raspberry, earthy and gamey, with a hint of smoked meat. It\u2019s both classic and unique.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/blaufrankisch\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Blaufrankisch<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/primitivo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Primitivo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Tannat<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p><strong>Written By Kate Meyers Emery<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><em>Kate Meyers Emery is a Finger Lakes wine evangelist, sharing the love and knowledge of her region through the classes she teaches and in her writing. She is the author of VinifeROC, a personal chronicle of her adventures in exploring the wines of New York, with a particular focus on Rochester and the Finger Lakes. Follow her wine adventures on Instagram at @kmeyersemery.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p>[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]<\/p>\r\n<\/div>","post_title":"Mourv\u00e8dre","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mourvedre","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2022-08-21 14:17:51","post_modified_gmt":"2022-08-21 18:17:51","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/mourvedre\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1901,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<p>Petit Verdot is mostly known for its role as a blending grape in Bordeaux-style blends, but this bold variety is making a name for itself as a mono-varietal wine. Named for it's small, thick-skinned berries, this grape is valued for its depth of color and tannic structure. Petit Verdot wines tend to have a dense, inky, violet-black appearance due to high levels of anthocyanin (a trait that is sought after due to its abundant antioxidents). It is one of the few varieties that will look deep purple in the glass.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<p>It is known for intense violet aromas and flavors, as well as black plum, black cherry and lilacs. The thick-skinned berries give this grape great tannic structure and it can achieve higher levels of alcohol due to its long growing period. This can give it a full and plush feel in the mouth. It also has a cedar and spice element that is amplified by oak aging. Many of these traits liken it to a Syrah in style.<\/p>\r\n<p>It once was one of the more important grapes for many Bordeaux wines in the Medoc during the 1700\u2019s, but eventually became scarce. Due to phylloxera in the late 1800's most of the Petit Verdot in The Left Bank was ripped up. Then what little Petit Verdot remained removed from the vineyards in Bordeaux following the frost of 1956. Petit Verdot began to reappear in California in the mid 1970\u2019s\u2014 mostly in the Mt. Veeder appellation. Today, this grape does really well in many places\u2014it's made a name for itself in Virginia, is being grown more and more across California and Washington. Argentina, Australia, Chile, Italy, Portugal and Spain have all been having success with this grape as well.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<p>Of course it is still used in the famous Bordeaux blends\u2014the largest plantings of Petit Verdot in Bordeaux are probably located at Chateau Bolaire in the Bordeaux Superieur region, which will include up to 40 percent Petit Verdot in a cuv\u00e9e. Interestingly, there are a few small producers in Bordeaux making wines from 100 percent Petit Verdot. The most famous estate is located in the Haut Medoc, Chateau Malescasse, which produces Le Petit de Malescasse. See below to check out other single-varietal Petit Verdots for yourself!<\/p>\r\n<h2>Recommended Petit Verdot Wines To Try<\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li>Passopisciaro 'Franchetti' Rosso, Sicily, Italy<\/li>\r\n\t<li>B. Leighton Olsen's Brothers Vineyard Petit Verdot, Yakima Valley, WA<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Abadia Retuerta P V Petit Verdot Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon, Spain<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Pirramimma Petit Verdot, McLaren Vale, Australia<\/li>\r\n\t<li>King Family Petit Verdot, Monticello, VA<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Bodegas Enrique Mendoza Petit Verdot, Alicante, Spain<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Santa Carolina Gran Reserva Petit Verdot, Rapel Valley, Chile<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Trinchero Central Valley West Vineyard Petit Verdot, Napa Valley, CA<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p><strong>Written By Carrie Dykes<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\"><em>Carrie Dykes is wine writer and reviewer living in the Hudson Valley region of New York. Her by-line can be also be found in Hudson Valley Wine Magazine, InCider Japan, The Cork Report and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. She is an international wine judge for the IWSC, where she uses the skills she has learned in her WSET Diploma training.\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p>[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]<\/p>","post_title":"Petit Verdot","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"petit-verdot","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2022-11-17 18:50:15","post_modified_gmt":"2022-11-17 23:50:15","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/petit-verdot\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1887,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<p>Malbec is thought to have originated near <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/beaune-burgundy-wine-region-2-day-family-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Burgundy<\/a><\/strong> before spreading to other <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/france\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">regions of France<\/a><\/strong>. Although it\u2019s probably best known as one of the red grapes allowed in Bordeaux blends, it\u2019s equally valued in Cahors in the Southwest. It also thrives in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/touraine-loire-valley-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Loire Valley<\/a><\/strong>, where it\u2019s known as C\u00f4t and is often used to produce lighter, more quaffable wines.<\/p>\r\n<p>Malbec is, however, THE grape of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/argentina\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Argentina<\/a><\/strong> due to Nicol\u00e1s Catena. He began a wine revolution in Argentina in the 1980s and studied the climate, the soils, the plantings, the farming. Every aspect of the winemaking process drove his passion to put Argentina on the international wine map. He inherently knew Argentina could and would make wine as great as anywhere else and had help from consultants such as Paul Hobbs and Attilio Pagli.<\/p>\r\n<p>To this day, the Catena family and their Wine Institute continue to be the driving force in the development and propagation on making Argentine Malbec one of the best wines in the world.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Malbec Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>According to sommelier Kevin Cornish, Malbec is a lush, ripe wine with dark concentrated flavors. It contains beautiful black fruit flavors and aromatics of spice and some floral notes at times. There are different degrees of complexity in Malbec depending upon the winemaker and the region it is made in.<\/p>\r\n<p>When from Cahors or Argentina, it can be positively inky, whereas it\u2019s lighter and brighter when it\u2019s from the Loire Valley. New World Malbecs outside of Argentina also tend to be muscular and bold. Expect lots of black fruit notes along with distinctive leather, mushroom, tobacco, smoke, pepper, and cacao. There are also hints of forest floor and clay in Malbec wines.<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Malbec Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>We\u2019re big believers in matching wine with cuisine from where it's produced, so try Malbec with grilled Argentine beef and chimichurri sauce \u2013 the pairing will pick up those smoky grilled notes along with the brighter herbal notes.<\/p>\r\n<p>Cassoulet is another hearty pairing for French iterations. That said, since Malbec is so barbecue friendly, pair it with anything on the grill!<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Malbec<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Argentina is basically a desert, due to the annual amount of rainfall (or lack thereof). For these high-altitude vineyards, careful study has been done for years to ensure the harvest is of the best quality, year in and year out. Water is in high demand and has been grandfathered in for use over the years. One can only use their allotment.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<p>On the valley floor, there are different methods of harvest, different pruning, and vine training. Vines may be more stressed at higher altitudes, and there are different soils.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<p>Cooler climates, like the Loire Valley, will produce those lighter wines that can be chilled and popped open to sip on an easy Tuesday.<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Malbec Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Bolder Cahors and Argentine Malbecs can age quite well. Although it's not as tannic as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec has a similar heft to it that breaks down and evolves beautifully with time. Malbec works well with a variety of oak treatments and, because it\u2019s bold, it tends not to be overwhelmed by deep toasting.<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try some of these Malbec wine recommendations from around the world:<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/z18i\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Chateau du C\u00e8dre<\/a><\/strong>, Cahors, Southwest, France<\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/3zls\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Le rocher des Voilettes<\/a><\/strong>, C\u00f4t Vieille Vignes, Touraine, Loire, France<\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/ds6y\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Catena Zapata<\/a><\/strong>, Argentino Vineyard, Mendoza, Argentina<\/li>\r\n\t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/47jw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>Amalaya<\/strong><\/a>, Salta, Argentina<\/li>\r\n\t<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/u3ey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Brave<\/a><\/strong>, Napa Valley, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/t7kj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><strong>K Vintners<\/strong><\/a>, \u2018Broncho,\u2019 Washington<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p>[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]<\/p>","post_title":"Malbec","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2022-07-31 13:10:01","post_modified_gmt":"2022-07-31 17:10:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/malbec\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1917,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<h2><strong>Tannat Wine Profile<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Native to France, Tannat has become the unlikely hero of Uruguay and put it on the winemaking map. It\u2019s an interesting grape that continues to surprise with the way it expresses terroir so specifically. Where it\u2019s grown and how it\u2019s vinified will change its flavor profile considerably so it\u2019s a pretty exciting grape for experimental winemakers to work with.<\/p>\r\n<p>On the nose, Tannat exhibits black fruit, topsoil, herbs and wet stones. On the palate, it can range from highly tannic and structured to softer and more rounded. It typically displays blackberry, current, plum, smoke, minerality, dried spices, but the berry quality can be fruitier and softer when it\u2019s from Uruguay.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Tannat Food Pairings<\/h2>\r\n<p>Tannat tends to work best with bolder dishes to stand up to the strength of its structure and flavor profile. Grilled game or lamb works very well for Tannats from Southwest France, as well as black olive, eggplant, and mushroom-based dishes. For those from Uruguay, the options are broader: grilled meats of just about all kinds work well, though overly hot sauce will mask the nuances of the wine.<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong>Wine Growing Regions for Tannat<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Tannat is thought to originally be from the Basque region of France but is best known as the grape of Madiran located in the Southwest region along the foothills of the Pyrenees. Although most Madirans are 100% Tannat, they can also be blended with Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Fer. Tannat is, however, still found in Irouleguy in Basque country and this key location is how it made its way to South America. Around 1870, Basque immigrants brought vines with them to Uruguay where they then began to thrive. Today, more Tannat in grown and produced in Uruguay than it is anywhere else in the world.<\/p>\r\n<p>Tannat has shown a lot of promise in hotter areas of California as well. Tablas Creek is partially responsible for its California growth. In 1990, it received Tannat cuttings from the Perrin nursery despite Tannat not being a varietal typically found in the Rh\u00f4ne Valley. Since Tannat is a fairly easy grape to grow, the nurseryman felt it would do well in California and it certainly has. Today, it can be found throughout the state including Paso Robles, Monterey, and Mendocino.<\/p>\r\n<p>Tannat continues to show global promise and is currently cultivated in Argentina, Brazil, Australia, Italy, and South Africa. In the United States, it\u2019s also found in Oregon and Arizona and shows great potential to be grown elsewhere.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Check out some of these Tannat and Tannat-based blends from around the world: <\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li>Chateau Peyros, Madiran, Southwest, France<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Domaine Ilarria, Irouleguy,<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Bodega Garzon Single Vineyard, Uruguay<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Dos Minas, Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Rousseau, \u201cThe Musketeer\u201d, Adler Springs Vineyard, Mendocino, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/winery\/tablas-creek-vineyard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Tablas Creek, Adelaida District, Paso Robles, California<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2>Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/h2>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p>[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]<\/p>","post_title":"Tannat","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"tannat","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-09-09 13:57:14","post_modified_gmt":"2019-09-09 17:57:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/tannat\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"2","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1900,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_date_gmt":"2018-03-08 16:52:08","post_content":"<h2><strong>Petite Sirah Wine &amp; Grape Profile<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Petite Sirah is a rather obscure and confusing grape. Originally named Durif, it\u2019s often mixed up with Syrah and although it\u2019s linked to Syrah, it isn\u2019t a clone of it. More on that later.<\/p>\r\n<p>Petite Sirah is deep, dark, and rich. It\u2019s fruit forward to the point of being generous and tends to be easily appreciated by those just beginning to explore the world of wine. On the nose, expect sweet black berry fruit, blueberry, chocolate, baking spices, and cigar. On the palate, its rich and round blackberry, leather, cocoa, anise, and cinnamon provide a lush portrait.<\/p>\r\n<p>Most often, Petite Sirah isn\u2019t meant to be aged because it produces lower-acid wine and is therefore meant to be enjoyed within 7 years or so after release. It certainly has the potential to age when harvested with appropriate acid levels, though, so it\u2019s worth seeking those out. However since it is so approachable when it\u2019s young, it works well with barbecue, brisket, tri tip, black beans, and other smoky-spicy dishes. Think of this as a party wine that still manages to hold intelligent conversation.<\/p>\r\n<h2><strong>Wine Growing Regions for Petite Sirah<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<p>Petite Sirah is a varietal that has a definitive birth: it was created by Montpellier-based botanist Francois Durif around 1880. It was most likely the result of an accidental crossing of Syrah and Peloursin, an esoteric grape that has almost completely disappeared. It was originally named <em>Plant du Rif<\/em> as a nod to Durif himself, but later it was just truncated to Durif.<\/p>\r\n<p>Like so many other European varieties, Petite Sirah found its way across the Atlantic Ocean and traversed the United States before settling in California. There, it flourished and became one of the most prolific wine grapes grown up until the 1960s. It began to fall from favor as Cabernet Sauvignon took over and became the King of Napa. Petite Sirah is still grown throughout the state and can be found in Lake, Medocino, Lodi and Napa counties. It tends to thrive in places with large diurnal swings to help maintain both bold fruit and much-needed acidity. In fact, the little known wine region of Suisun Valley just east of Napa is the self-declared Petite Sirah capital of the world and the grape certainly seems to love it there.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/p>\r\n<p>Beyond California, it is produced in the Carmel and Tishbi regions of Israel as Petite Sirah. Elsewhere, it\u2019s grown as Durif in the Rutherglen and Riverina regions of Australia, the tiny Palette region of France, Chile, and the Baja peninsula of Mexico.<\/p>\r\n<p><strong>Since it is best known out of California, most of the following can be found there: Check out some of these Petite Sirah and Petite Sirah-based blends from California<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li>Retro Cellars, Napa, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Aaron Wines, Paso Robles, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Shannon Ridge High Elevation, Lake County, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Ramsey, North Coast, California<\/li>\r\n\t<li>Dusted Valley, Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, California<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chardonnay-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chardonnay<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p><strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n<hr \/>\r\n<p>[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]<\/p>","post_title":"Petit Sirah","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"petit-sirah","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2019-11-20 10:58:17","post_modified_gmt":"2019-11-20 15:58:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/petit-sirah\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1870,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2023-04-27 19:37:32","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-27 23:37:32","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"small\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Editor's Note:<\/strong> Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><em>\u201cCabernet Franc is the lighter, laid-back, hippy father of the yuppie Cabernet Sauvignon. It's bright in personality, and soft in its embrace.\u201d \u2013 Ashlee McRae<\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Essential Guide to Cabernet Franc Wine<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:uagb\/table-of-contents {\"block_id\":\"1c4b1ff2\",\"classMigrate\":true,\"mappingHeaders\":[true,true,true,true,true,true],\"overallBorderTopWidth\":1,\"overallBorderLeftWidth\":1,\"overallBorderRightWidth\":1,\"overallBorderBottomWidth\":1,\"overallBorderTopLeftRadius\":6,\"overallBorderTopRightRadius\":6,\"overallBorderBottomLeftRadius\":6,\"overallBorderBottomRightRadius\":6,\"overallBorderStyle\":\"solid\",\"UAGDay\":[]} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a><\/strong>What Does Cabernet Franc Taste Like? <\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Where Cabernet Sauvignon leans towards tobacco, Cabernet Franc leads more towards earthiness and slate. Classic fruit notes are raspberry, black cherry, black currant, and mulberry. Secondary notes are typically violet, graphite, and green vegetables like bell pepper. Cabernet Francs from the Loire Valley often have a distinctive dustiness to them. Cabernet Franc benefits from high acid and tannins, both of which allow it to evolve beautifully in the bottle.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Origin of Cabernet Franc<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Franc likely&nbsp;originated in&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/spain\/basque-country-wine-region-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Basque country<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;\u2013&nbsp;where Northern Spain and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-region\/south-west-france\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwestern France<\/a><\/strong> meet along the coast of the&nbsp;Bay of Biscay. It settled in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/30-best-bordeaux-wineries-to-visit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">romantic&nbsp;Bordeaux region<\/a><\/strong> of France in the 17th century, where it met its perfect match, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/sauvignon-blanc-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sauvignon Blanc<\/a><\/strong>. <strong>Cabernet Franc<\/strong> and Sauvignon Blanc started as neighbors but became wildly attracted to each other. Together they forged the most widely planted and recognized grape in the world \u2014 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/em><\/a><\/strong>. &nbsp;Around the time of this birth, an abbot named Breton took it upon himself to transport Cabernet Franc vines to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/france\/loire-valley-wine-region\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Loire Valley<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Versatility of Cabernet Franc<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Historically, Cabernet Franc is used as a blending grape in Bordeaux in conjunction with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. As the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, it is only fitting that Cabernet Franc would act as a sort of safety net in Bordeaux, where the summers can be quite short. This particular grape ripens one to two weeks before Cabernet Sauvignon, almost always prompting an early harvest just in time to dodge the first freeze of winter. This is very different from many <em>New World<\/em>&nbsp;regions in&nbsp;California where summers are always longer&nbsp;and vintners need not worry about harvesting unripe Cabernet Sauvignon ahead of schedule because of winter frost.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The \u201c<strong><em>Bordeaux Blend<\/em><\/strong>,\u201d also dubbed a&nbsp;<strong><em>Claret<\/em><\/strong> in England is and will continue to be celebrated around the globe. These days, with the abundance of grape yields, Bordeaux grape blending is done more to adhere to&nbsp;tradition and less because of&nbsp;unripe or damaged Cabernet Sauvignon.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Cabernet Franc Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Franc blends pair well with grilled steaks and chops, Portobello mushrooms, green olives, pepper, rosemary, and mint. Lighter versions of 100% Cabernet Franc (look for a lighter pink color) will pair well with chicken, white fish, and quiche. Due to the acid levels, it can work beautifully with creamier dishes, like a mushroom stroganoff. And, try it with goat cheese for a classic Loire Valley pairing!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Cabernet Franc<\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Summers in Bordeaux run around 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) so it tends to thrive in more moderate climates. Cabernet Franc really reaches its full potential in the limestone soils of St. Emilion and Pomerol. It also thrives in the Loire Valley in Chinon, Bourgueil, St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil, Anjou, and Saumur. There, wines tend to be 100% Cabernet Franc and are very worth checking out to experience varietally-correct flavors.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Similarly, <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/pacific-northwest\/columbia-river-gorge-itinerary-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\">winemakers in Washington<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/new-york\/seneca-lake-itinerary-weekend-finger-lakes-ny\/\" target=\"_blank\">New York<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/virginia\/10-top-virginia-wineries-near-washington-dc-day-trip\/\" target=\"_blank\">Virginia<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/new-zealand\/best-new-zealand-wine-regions\/\" target=\"_blank\">New Zealand<\/a><\/strong> are bottling beautiful 100% Cabernet Franc wines because these vines withstand freezing temperatures better than Merlot and other grapes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Cabernet Franc Aged? <\/strong><\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For aging Cabernet Franc, think of two things: acid and tannins. The most age-worthy tend to be from cooler climates where the grapes ripen just enough to maintain high levels of acidity. Loire Valley Cabernet Franc can age beautifully for years and many vintners age it in either neutral oak or stone, allowing the pure flavor of the fruit to come forth. Bordeaux blends are known to be very age-worthy as well, though since they\u2019re such a mishmash we can\u2019t credit Cabernet Franc on its own.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Current Key Wine Growing Regions for Cabernet Franc<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Franc is a grape variety that has found a home in various parts of the world, each offering unique expressions of the grape due to their diverse terroirs and climates. Let's delve deeper into the key growing regions where Cabernet Franc thrives:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Loire Valley, France<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The Loire Valley is considered the birthplace of Cabernet Franc, where it has been grown for centuries. The region is known for producing elegant and aromatic Cabernet Franc wines, particularly in appellations such as Chinon, Bourgueil, and Saumur-Champigny. The cool climate of the Loire Valley allows the grape to ripen slowly, resulting in wines that are fresh, with bright acidity, medium tannins, and vibrant red fruit flavors accompanied by herbal and earthy notes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bordeaux, France<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc plays a secondary role, often blended with other grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to create the region's famed red wines. The grape is particularly important in the appellations of Saint-\u00c9milion and Pomerol, where it contributes to the structure, elegance, and aromatic complexity of the wines. Ch\u00e2teau Cheval Blanc, one of the most iconic wineries in Bordeaux, is well-known for its high proportion of Cabernet Franc in its flagship wine.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">United States<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In the US, Cabernet Franc has found success in various regions, including California, Washington, and Virginia. In California, it is often grown in Napa and Sonoma, where the warmer climate produces riper, fuller-bodied wines with dark fruit flavors, while still retaining the grape's distinctive herbal notes. In Washington and Virginia, the cooler climates yield more restrained and elegant wines that are reminiscent of the Loire Valley style.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Italy<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/destinations\/italy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Italy<\/strong><\/a>, Cabernet Franc is often grown in the northeastern regions, particularly Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Veneto, where it is known as \"Bordo\" or \"Cabernet Frank.\" Italian Cabernet Franc wines tend to be medium to full-bodied, with ripe fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and moderate tannins. The grape is also used in \"Super Tuscan\" blends alongside other Bordeaux varieties.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">South Africa<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Franc has been gaining traction in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/south-africa\/best-2-week-south-africa-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>South Africa<\/strong><\/a>, where it is primarily grown in the Stellenbosch and Paarl regions. South African Cabernet Franc wines often showcase a mix of old-world elegance and new-world fruitiness, with flavors ranging from red berries to blackcurrants, along with the grape's characteristic herbal and earthy notes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Argentina<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In Argentina, Cabernet Franc is primarily grown in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/argentina\/best-wineries-in-mendoza\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Mendoza<\/strong><\/a>, where it benefits from high-altitude vineyards that provide cool nights and intense sunlight. This allows the grape to develop ripe fruit flavors while maintaining its natural acidity. Argentine Cabernet Franc wines are often full-bodied, with dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a touch of spiciness.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Canada<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Cabernet Franc has found a unique niche in Canada, particularly in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/new-york\/niagara-escarpment-buffalo-itinerary-top-wineries-restaurants-hotels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Niagara Peninsula<\/strong><\/a>, where it is used to make both red and ice wines. Canadian Cabernet Franc red wines are often light to medium-bodied, with bright red fruit flavors, high acidity, and subtle earthy and herbal notes. As an ice wine, Cabernet Franc showcases concentrated flavors of red berries, honey, and tropical fruits, with a lively acidity that balances the wine's sweetness.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cabernet Franc Wines You Can Buy Online<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/qi4w\" target=\"_blank\">Catherine &amp; Pierre Breton, \u2018Trinch!<\/a><\/strong>,\u2019 Bourgueil, Touraine, Loire, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/n3ku\" target=\"_blank\">Domaine de la Noblaie, \u2018Les Chiens-Chiens,<\/a><\/strong>\u2019 Chinon, Touraine, Loire, France<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/8tsu\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Jonata, \u2018El Ama de Jonata,<\/strong><\/a>\u2019 Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara, Central Coast, California<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/miuf\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ravines, Finger Lakes<\/strong><\/a>, New York<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/6pfo\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>El Enemigo, \u2018Gran Enemigo,<\/strong><\/a>\u2019 Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Mendoza, Argentina<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/07uu\" target=\"_blank\">Savage Grace, Copeland Vineyard<\/a><\/strong>, Rattlesnake Hills, Yakima Valley, Washington<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More Notable Cabernet Franc Producers<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Some notable Cabernet Franc producers have gained recognition for their exceptional wines, highlighting the grape's versatility and distinctive characteristics. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In Bordeaux, Ch\u00e2teau Cheval Blanc and Ch\u00e2teau Ausone stand out for their exquisite wines that blend Cabernet Franc with other Bordeaux varieties, resulting in elegant and complex expressions. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:block {\"ref\":17481} \/-->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In the Loire Valley, Domaine Bernard Baudry and Domaine Charles Joguet are highly regarded for their commitment to showcasing the unique terroir and traditional winemaking techniques of the region, which translate into refined and aromatic Cabernet Franc wines. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Across the Atlantic, in Virginia, USA, Barboursville Vineyards and Linden Vineyards have emerged as key producers, demonstrating the grape's adaptability to the New World's diverse climates and terroirs. These wineries have helped to elevate the reputation of Cabernet Franc beyond its traditional strongholds and continue to contribute to the growing appreciation of this fascinating grape variety.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Written by Jamie Metzgar<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"small\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:shortcode -->\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\n<!-- \/wp:shortcode -->","post_title":"Cabernet Franc","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"cabernet-franc-wine-grape-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-27 19:43:06","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-27 23:43:06","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/uncategorized\/cabernet-franc\/","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":2553,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-04-02 22:45:21","post_date_gmt":"2018-04-02 22:45:21","post_content":"<div class=\"hasHiddenText\"><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;\">Editor's Note: Winetraveler is a reader-supported publication and this article may contain affiliate links. We review and recommend all products independently. When you buy wine through our site, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.<\/span><\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\nMerlot is a blue-black grape variety that produces softer, medium to full bodied\u00a0<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-resources\/whats-the-difference-between-dry-wine-and-sweet-wine\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><em>dry red wine<\/em><\/strong><\/a>. It is currently the most extensively planted red wine grape variety in the Bordeaux region of France and the second most widely planted and popular red wine grape variety in the United States \u2013\u00a0just behind <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a>.\r\n\r\nClassically vinified to be a dry red wine, Merlot grapes can have dramatic differences in flavor depending on the type of climate they\u2019re grown in. Many wine regions famous for growing Merlot will produce both red wine blends and single varietal wines with the Merlot grape.\r\n\r\n<strong>IN THIS GUIDE:<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#taste\">Taste<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#pairings\">Pairings<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#terroir\">Terroir<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#aging\">Aging<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a href=\"#recommendations\">Wine Recommendations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>...and more<\/strong><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"taste\"><\/a>What Does Merlot Taste Like? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\nMerlot tends to have a similar flavor profile to Cabernet Sauvignon and is actually within the same family of grapes (<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-franc-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>a descendant of Cabernet Franc<\/strong><\/a>). The main difference between these grapes is that Merlot has thinner skin and tends to be <em>less<\/em> <a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-resources\/definition-what-is-astringency-in-wine\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><em>astringent<\/em><\/strong><\/a>\u00a0due\u00a0to\u00a0fewer and softer\u00a0<a rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/wine-resources\/tannins-in-wine-definition\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><em>tannins<\/em><\/strong><\/a>. It also maintains a fruitier, sometimes less complex body.\r\n\r\nWhile Merlot flavor does vary depending upon where it\u2019s grown climate-wise, you\u2019ll typically get notes of ripe blue, black and red fruit. These tasting notes are often backed by undertones of cocoa, vanilla, and various earth tones.\r\n\r\nClassically styled Merlots from France tend to exhibit black currant, raspberry, and ripe plum fruit notes while New World Merlots tend to lean more towards plum, black cherry, and pomegranate. Merlots often have gravel, tea, and forest floor secondary notes, and, depending on the barrel treatment, they can also display cola, cacao, vanilla, or more subtle mushroom and white pepper notes.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"pairings\"><\/a>Merlot Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nBecause of Merlot\u2019s lighter tannin structure, there tends not to be an intense sensation of astringency in the mouth. This makes Merlot fun to pair with softer poultry and meats on the sweet or savory side, like roasted duck, lechon, or honey-barbecued chicken. Try pairing any style of Merlot with a side of ricotta risotto or penne alla vodka.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"terroir\"><\/a>Climate and Terroir for Merlot<\/strong><\/h2>\r\nMerlot is a grape variety that can do well in both warm and cool climates. However, it\u2019s important to note that \u201cwarm\u201d and \u201ccool\u201d is often a subjective term in the wine world.\r\n\r\nFor instance, many Bordeaux old world wine producers consider 60 degree summers (Fahrenheit) weather to be warm, while most new world Merlot producers (and most of the rest of the world) consider 60 degrees to be on the cooler side.\r\n\r\nFor the sake of this article, 60 degrees in the summer is cold. That said, Merlot can thrive in both warm and cool climates when given the proper amount of TLC, with varying degrees of ripeness and yield.\r\n\r\nIn terms of soil composition, Merlot adapts well to silt and gravel-esque soil types (such as those along the Medoc in Bordeaux), as well as limestone and clay.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"aging\"><\/a>How is Merlot Aged? <\/strong><\/h2>\r\nThe most age-worthy Merlots are often blends because Merlot does not have overly high tannins or acid, both of which contribute to age-worthiness. Merlot-dominant wines from Pomerol and St-Emilion, for example, can usually age beautifully for years but they\u2019re rarely 100% Merlot. Merlot-based Bordeaux is usually blended with either Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon, both of which have higher acidity and tannins for aging.\r\n\r\nMany New World producers age Merlot in oak barrels, lending toasty notes to the wine, and some can age very well. More inexpensive Merlots are usually meant to be enjoyed upon release.\r\n<h2><strong><a name=\"recommendations\"><\/a>Try any of these Merlot wine recommendations from producers around the world:<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/la8k\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Lynsolence, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru<\/strong><\/a>, Bordeaux, France<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/v6qr\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ch\u00e2teau Gazin, Pomerol<\/strong><\/a>, Bordeaux, France<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/vuk0\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pahlmeyer, Napa Valley<\/strong><\/a>, California<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/8z5d\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Provenance Vineyards, Napa Valley<\/strong><\/a>, Calfornia<\/li>\r\n \t<li><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/9g4t\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>L\u2019Ecole 41, Walla Walla Valley<\/strong><\/a>, Columbia Valley, Washington<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong><a rel=\"nofollow noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/dipr\" target=\"_blank\">Barone Ricasoli Casalferro<\/a><\/strong>, Tuscany, Italy<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18pt;\">Learn About These Other Wine Grape Varieties<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/chenin-blanc\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Chenin Blanc<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/cabernet-sauvignon-taste-profile-food-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/grenache-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Grenache<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/malbec-wine-grape-characteristics-taste-pairing\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Malbec<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/marsanne\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Marsanne<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/nebbiolo-wine-grape-characteristics\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Nebbiolo<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/petit-verdot\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Petit Verdot<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-grigio-wine-grape-characteristics-profile\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pinot Grigio<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><strong><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/pinot-meunier\/\" target=\"_blank\">Pinot Meunier<\/a><\/strong><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/riesling\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Riesling<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/tannat\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tannat<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div><a rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/grape\/teroldego\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Teroldego<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div>\r\n\r\n<strong>Written By Jamie Metzgar<\/strong>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><em><span style=\"font-size: 10pt; color: #333333;\">Jamie Elizabeth Metzgar began her career in wine by pouring in a tasting room on the East End of Long Island, NY. After moving to New York City, she landed a position at Chambers Street Wines where she was encouraged to pursue wine education at the Wine &amp; Spirits Education Trust (WSET). She earned Level III certification there and has since earned California Wine Appellation Specialist and Certified Specialist of Wine certifications as well. After way too many moves, she has recently landed in Northern California where she is compiling an unofficial roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n[jetpack_subscription_form title=\"Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!\" subscribe_text=\"Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new articles are published.\" subscribe_button=\"Sign Me Up!\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>","post_title":"Merlot","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","post_password":"","post_name":"merlot-wine-taste-characteristics","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-04-03 15:42:43","post_modified_gmt":"2023-04-03 19:42:43","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.winetraveler.com\/?post_type=grape&#038;p=2553","menu_order":0,"post_type":"grape","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"1","filter":"raw"}],"tripadvisor_id":"2292558","ta_rating":"4.4","ta_num_reviews":"629","ta_rating_image_url":"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/img\/cdsi\/img2\/ratings\/traveler\/4.5-47518-5.svg","ta_web_url":"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Attraction_Review-g32861-d2292558-Reviews-DAOU_Vineyards-Paso_Robles_San_Luis_Obispo_County_California.html?m=47518","ta_date_updated":"2025-12-03 19:20:47"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Daou Vineyards &amp; Winery \u2022 Wine Tastings, Tours, Reviews &amp; Events<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Visit Daou Vineyards &amp; Winery in Paso Robles, California. 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