Common Types Of Wine:
Which Is Which?

There are literally hundreds of types of wine, from Aidani to Zweigelt. The name of the wine comes from the grape that is used to make the wine. Brush up on the common wine varieties and information so you can impress your friends at the next wine party...

Types Of Wine: Red Wine

Zinfandel is planted in over 10 percent of California vineyards. It is most commonly used in White Zinfandel wine, which is a semi-sweet rosé (pink) wine.

Syrah/Shiraz are two names for the same strong variety of red wine. The name "Shiraz" is normally used for wine made in Australia, while "Syrah" is the name for the same type of wine grown in Europe. In America, the two names are often used interchangeably.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely recognized red wine variety worldwide. It is considered to be a very strong wine with high tannin levels, and is known for its very dark color. It is used as a blend and as a varietal.

Cabernet Franc is normally used for blending and should not be confused with Cabernet Sauvignon (see above). It has a pale red color, and can have peppery taste. It is often mixed with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot in the Bordeaux style.

Pinot Noir is associated with the Burgundy region in France, but is made all over the world. It god a boost of popularity in the US a few years ago, after the wine tasting movie "Sideways". It is known as being a very difficult grape to grow, but is popular worldwide. Master sommelier Madeline Triffon once called pinot "sex in a glass".

Chianti is originally an italian red wine variety. Originally from Tuscany, it has been called the "Bordeaux of Italy". It is generally high in acidity with medium tannins, and varies from light- to medium-bodied, depending on the quantity of different grapes which are blended into it.

Port wine is a dark, sweet after-dinner type wine. It is very dark and rich. It is usually consumed as a dessert.

Types Of Wine: White Wine

Riesling is known for having fruity notes and a very flowery aroma, and can be found very dry or very sweet. It is sometimes used in sparkling wines.

Chardonnay is a neutral white wine and can be found with rich buttery flavors or sweet and fruity notes. It is a component of champagne.

Petit Sirah is a sort of catch-all used to describe many different white wines for which the grape's origins are unknown. For this reason, you can find Petit Sirahs with all different kinds of characteristics.

Pinot Gris are rich and full-bodied and can be found in colors from golden yellow to greenish to light pink. Originally from France, its clone from Italy is known as Pinot Grigio and exhibits lighter body and crisp, acidic characteristics.

Sauvignon Blanc is dry, crisp and refreshing and usually is a very pale yellow. It pairs well with fish (see my page on wine and food pairing .

Viogniet is a difficult to grow grape originally from France. It is usually dry, with complex and powerful tastes and very subtle aroma.

Gewurztraminer is a German style wine known for its spiciness. It often has a floral fragrance.

Hopefullly this primer on the basic wine varieties and information was helpful. These are just a few of the hundreds of wine varieties that you will come across. They are the most common, and knowing at least which ones are red and white will get you through most situations. Let me know if there are any big ones that I am missing and should add to the wine variety table.

Here is some for in-depth info on the most common types of red wine .

Now that you have an idea of the most common types of wine and some good information about each one, it's time to learn some wine tasting basics . Explore around my site for more great info and tasting tips.

Now get out there and drink some wine!

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