Learn about Chardonnay WineWritten by Nerello Glasure
The Chardonnay grape variety is a classic white wine grape grown all around world. It is at top, as probably world's favorite white grape variety. Where It Grows The Chardonnay grape grows everywhere. The exact origin of Chardonnay is hard to trace, but its reputation was established in Burgundy region of France. Winemakers love Chardonnay because vines are easy to grow, and have a high yield. Chardonnay is one of few grapes in world that does not require blending. However, it is also blended with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier to produce Champagne. Wine Characteristics It is widely known for producing excellent full-bodied wines. The cooler zoned climate Chardonnay grapes produce an abundance of fruit flavors. You can pick up apple, pineapple, or hint of peach. The warmer climate Chardonnays may have less of fruits but develop wonderful honey, vanilla, and roasted flavors that really fill mouth.
| | Understanding Wine GrapesWritten by Nerello Glasure
You will find that one of easiest ways to get to know your way around wine flavors is through grape varieties. Each grape variety has specific characteristics. In some regions, one grape variety is used to make a wine; in others, winemakers blend several varieties in a single wine. To help you identify grape varieties, below is an overview of each of major red grapes and their characteristics.Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Sauvignon is big daddy of red wine world. It is like Chardonnay, as it is widely planted and distributed. The result of this is that there are so many versions of this grape. Many people think of Cabernet Sauvignon as being a wine that needs to age, but that is only because best red Bordeaux need age. Most non-premium varieties are ready to go right away. Under ideal conditions, it produces an aromatic, tannic wine that ages and evolves to be both elegant and powerful. Perfectly balanced Bordeaux is one that has classic notes of black-currants, cedar, cigar boxes, pencils, mint and dark chocolate. Sounds delicious! Gamay For most part, you will find Gamay produced as Beaujolais. It mainly grows on hills in south Burgundy. The aroma of a young Gamay is described as a wave of cherry and strawberry fruit. On palate, Gamay wines are bright and crisp. They are moderate in alcohol and have very little tannin. Wines from Gamay grapes are ideal for all kinds of foods. Merlot Merlot started out as a Cabernet Sauvignon in Bordeaux and has risen to international popularity. The great wines of Pomerol and St. Emilion in Bordeaux are based on Merlot with Cabernet in blend. These wines show Merlot at its toughest and most intense. Merlot´s popularity is because it is softer, fruiter, and earlier maturing than Cabernet Sauvignon and displays some of same aromas along with mint, and tobacco. In general, drink Merlot young.
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