Wine 101... and then some! Introduction to Wine | Grapes of SoNapa | Wine and Food Pairing | How to Taste Wine | How to Store Wine | How to Read a Wine • White wines of the region – Chardonnay – Pinot gris/grigio – Riesling – Sauvignon blanc • Red wines of the region – Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot – Pinot Noir – Syrah – Zinfandel Chardonnay The classic, most popular grape of the old world, which is grown throughout the world’s wine growing regions. Chardonnay’s have aromas of lemon, pineapple, melon and exotic fruits. Some Chardonnays are matured in oak, which adds tastiness, butterscotch, vanilla, cinnamon or a combination of these aromas. Some Chardonnay’s have a buttery texture. This is from malolactic fermentation, a secondary fermentation that converts malic acid to lactic acid. Pinot Gris Closely related to the Pinor Nior grape, it actually has a pinkish, light purple skin. Classified as a noble grape in Alsace, France and known in Italy as Pinot grigio. Pinot Gris’ are typically dry with floral notes, and aromas of white peach and light apricot. Riesling Classic grape of Germany, used to make sweet wines and late harvest wines. Riesling’s have aromas of pear, yellow and green apple, white peach, citrus, floral and honey notes. Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blancs are at their best within 5 years. Sauvignon Blancs have aromas of black currant leaves, straw and grass. These wines are light crisp and refreshing. Cabernet Sauvignon This is the classic grape of Bordeaux and is grown throughout the world in warm climates. These wines are typically high in tannins and acid which mature with age. Expect aromas of black currant/cassis, blackberry fruit aromas, cedar box/wood shavings, and dried fruit. Merlot Most widely planted black grape in Bordeaux. It is softer then the Cabernet Sauvignon sometimes expressing “jammy” or peppery notes such as lush blackberry, black currant and plummy flavors with velvety texture. Pinot Noir The classic grape of Burgundy and Champagne, and actually one of only 3 grapes permitted in Champagne. Pinot Noirs have light tannins with aromas and flavors of raspberries, strawberries, and red black cherries. As we know from Sideways the skins are thin, temperamental and difficult to grow. Syrah Syrah is the main varietal of Northern Cotes du Rhone, France; and the most widely planted grape varietal in Australia. However, it is known as Shiraz in Australia. Syrah is grown in warmer regions of the world. It can be powerful, full bodied, with aromas of black pepper, raspberry, mulberry, rubber, liquorice, chocolate and leather. Mature Syrah wines may exhibit aromatic characteristics such as wet leather and game. Zinfandel This grape is widely planted in California producing a variety of wines from blush to full bodied reds. The aromas range from plum, blackberry, cherry, spicy, earthy while taking on jammy, fruit forward characteristics.