We dive into the captivating world of red wine grapes. From the noble Cabernet Sauvignon to the delicate Pinot Noir, red grape varieties offer a remarkable range of flavours and characteristics. Here we explore a few key grape varieties and their flavour profiles.

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MERLOT: Widely cultivated around the world and known for its approachable and fruit-forward wines. It originated in Bordeaux, France, but has gained popularity globally. Merlot wines are typically medium to full-bodied, with flavours of ripe black cherries, plums, and berries. They often exhibit notes of chocolate, herbs, and a hint of spice. Merlot is known for its smooth texture, supple tannins, and moderate acidity. It can be enjoyed in its youth but also has the potential to age gracefully. Merlot is frequently used in Bordeaux blends and is also made as a varietal wine in many regions, showcasing its versatility and wide appeal.

CABERNET SAUVIGNON: and esteemed grapes. It originated in Bordeaux, France, and is now grown in many wine regions globally. Cabernet Sauvignon wines are known for their full-bodied nature, rich dark fruit flavours such as blackcurrant and blackberry, firm tannins, and you'll often find notes of cedar, tobacco, and herbs. The variety has excellent ageing potential and produces complex and structured wines. 

CABERNET FRANC: Another highly esteemed grape, it is believed to have originated in the Bordeaux region of France and is often used as a blending grape in Bordeaux-style wines. However, it is also made into varietal wines in several regions worldwide. Cabernet Franc wines are known for their aromatic nature, they are typically medium to full bodied, and show flavours of red fruits like raspberry and red currant. They often exhibit herbal and spice notes, along with a smooth and elegant tannic structure. Cabernet Franc can produce complex and age-worthy wines that showcase its unique characteristics.

PINOT NOIR: Elegant and high regarded, originally from the Burgundy region of France, it is renowned for producing some of the world's finest and most sought-after wines. Pinot Noir is notoriously challenging to cultivate but thrives in cooler climates. The wines it produces are delicate, light to medium-bodied, and known for their complex aromas of red berries, cherries, and floral notes. Pinot Noir showcases a refined balance of acidity, tannins, and subtle earthy undertones, making it a favourite among wine enthusiasts who appreciate its finesse and nuance.

MALBEC: A hugely popular variety known for producing robust and full-bodied wines. Originally from France, particularly the Bordeaux region, Malbec found its true potential in Argentina, where it has become the country's flagship grape. Malbec wines are characterized by rich dark fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and often exhibit notes of blackberry, plum, cocoa, and a touch of spice.

GRENACHE: Also known as Garnacha in Spain, is a red grape variety that originated in Spain but has spread to other wine regions around the world. It is highly versatile and used in both varietal wines and blends. Grenache produces wines with medium to full body, often displaying flavours of ripe red fruits like raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. It can also exhibit spice notes, herbal nuances, and a touch of earthiness. Grenache wines tend to have approachable tannins, moderate acidity, and can showcase both fruity and savoury characteristics depending on the winemaking style and region.

TEMPRANILLO:  Synonymous with Spanish wine. It is the primary grape used in renowned Spanish regions like Rioja and Ribera del Duero. Tempranillo wines are known for their versatility and ability to age. They typically have medium to full body, with flavors of red berries, plum, cherry, and notes of leather, tobacco, and spice. Tempranillo showcases a good balance of tannins and acidity, with a smooth and velvety texture. It is often oak-aged, which adds complexity and additional layers of flavors such as vanilla and cedar. Tempranillo is loved for its character, elegance, and ability to express the unique terroir of different Spanish regions.

NEBBIOLO: Highly regarded in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. It is responsible for producing some of Italy's most prestigious and age-worthy wines, including Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo wines are known for their complexity, structure, and ability to age gracefully. They typically exhibit flavours of red fruits like cherry and raspberry, along with floral notes, tar, licqourice, and spices. Nebbiolo wines are characterised by high acidity, firm tannins, and a distinctive aroma often described as "tar and roses." They showcase elegance, depth, and a unique sense of place, making Nebbiolo a favourite among wine enthusiasts and collectors.

SANGIOVESE: Predominantly associated with Italy, particularly the Tuscany region. It is the key grape used in renowned Italian wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Sangiovese wines are known for their bright acidity, medium to full body, and flavours of red cherries, strawberries, and plums. They often exhibit herbal notes, dried flowers, and earthy undertones. Sangiovese can range from approachable and fruity to complex and age-worthy, depending on the region and winemaking style. It is highly versatile and showcases the unique characteristics of different terroirs, reflecting the diversity and richness of Italian winemaking.