Classic grape varieties

Cabernet Franc

One of the parent grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc is a medium-bodied red with refined tannins and bright acidity. It offers distinctive aromas of red berries, violet, graphite, and green pepper, especially when grown in cooler climates. It thrives in the Loire Valley (e.g. Chinon, Saumur-Champigny) and is also widely used in Bordeaux blends.Profile: Elegant, aromatic, slightly herbal

Merlot

Merlot is a soft, round, and approachable red grape, known for its plush texture and ripe fruit character. It brings notes of plum, black cherry, chocolate, and subtle herbs. A major grape in Right Bank Bordeaux (Saint-Émilion, Pomerol) and widely planted worldwide, it balances tannic varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Profile: Smooth, ripe, accessible
Best in: Bordeaux blends, varietal reds, early-drinking and age-worthy wines

Cabernet Sauvignon

A powerful, tannic red grape known for its depth, structure, and aging potential. Typical flavors include blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco, graphite, and spice. It's one of the world’s most recognized red varieties, forming the backbone of Left Bank Bordeaux and many prestigious wines globally.

Profile: Full-bodied, firm tannins, long finish
Best in: Bordeaux blends, varietal wines, oak-aged reds for long cellaring

Chardonnay

Arguably the most versatile white grape in the world, Chardonnay adapts to many styles — from crisp and mineral (Chablis) to rich and buttery (Burgundy, California). Common tasting notes include apple, citrus, white flowers, hazelnut, and when oaked, vanilla and brioche.

Profile: Varies from lean and mineral to full-bodied and creamy

Syrah (a.k.a. Shiraz in Australia)

A deep-colored, full-bodied red grape originating from the Northern Rhône. It yields complex wines with flavors of blackberry, black pepper, smoked meat, olive tapenade, and often violet. When grown in warmer climates, it becomes more jammy and plush. Known for its structure and spicy character.Profile: Bold, spicy, age-worthy

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a crisp, aromatic white grape known for its vibrant acidity and distinctive herbaceous, citrus-driven character. Depending on the terroir and climate, it can express notes of gooseberry, lime, green apple, white flowers, and flint or smoky minerality. In warmer areas, it may also show hints of passion fruit or peach.Profile: Zesty, aromatic, bright acidity

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is one of the world’s most elegant and complex red grape varieties but also a difficult and fragile one, known for producing light to medium-bodied wines with silky tannins and a vibrant aromatic profile. Its typical flavors include red cherry, raspberry, rose petal, earth, mushroom, and often subtle spice or smoky undertones when aged in oak.

Profile: Elegant, delicate, aromatic