Every year I learn of a new grape that I hadn’t heard of, usually during a tasting. I just love learning about them and realize there are so many varieties out there…some less popular than others and some just used in a blend. Most folks new to wine are just aware of a few red and white grapes, so this list will help expand your knowledge. There are many more grapes than what I have listed below, so if you would like me to add a variety you have tasted, feel free to email me.
It is so interesting when you view the pictures of these grape varieties, as they range in color, size and shape. Most people imagine that the grapes are like what they purchase in the store, as simply green or red, but grapes, like people, are so individualized. They are like pieces of artwork.
Semillon
Garganega
Gewürztraminer
Chardonnay
Meunier-black used in champagne
Merlot
Garnacha
Nebbiola
Dolcetta
Cinsaut
Carignan
Aglianico
Pinot Noir
White grapes
Chardonnay — Burgundy France. Sonoma, Casablanca chili, Mendoza Argentina, Walker Bay South Africa, Australia-Yarro Valley, Adelaid Hills and Margaret River, Marlborough New Zealand.
Sauvignon Blanc
Chenin Blanc
Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris
Riesling
Semillon—Bordeaux and Hunter Valley Australia
Gewurztraminer—Alsace France & New Zealand
Muscat/Moscato-for sweet sparkling wines
Viogneir
Albarino
Melon Blanc
Verdicchio
Trebbiano
Cortese grape –called Gavi wine
Garganega grape —called Soave wine
Torrontes–Argentina
Glera-for sparkling wines like Presecco
Red/Purple/Black grapes
Pinot Noir
Malbec
Zinfandel (Primitivo)
Garnacha/Grenache
Syrah/Shiraz
Tempranillo
Sangiovese
Nebbiola
Barbera
Montepulciano
Petit Sirah/Petit Syrah (Durif)
Nero D’Avola
Dolcetta
Lambrusco di Sorbera
Touriga Nacional
Lagrein
Corvina
Negroamoro
Pinotage
Cinsaut (Cindault)
Gamay
Carignan
Aglianico
Mourvedre (called Monastrell in Spain)
Meunier-champagne grapes