In the world of wine there are seven grapes that stand head and shoulders above all others. They have eclipsed their humble European origins and dominate winemaking in all hemispheres. These four reds and three whites are known as the Noble Grapes.
The reds are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Noir. The white grapes are Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. From this fruit arises the finest expression of vinifera. Even though they are grown worldwide, the soil of their origin produces the best, and most sought after grapes, to this very day.
Cabernet is the undisputed king of red wines. Spicy, herbal and tannic are just a few of the words used to describe it. It reigns supreme in the Medoc area of the Bordeaux region. Merlot, French for “little blackbird,” is the other Noble Red in Bordeaux. Not as big as Cabernet, it produces fine, age-worthy wines on its own. When these two are blended together the wine is far greater than the sum of its parts.
Syrah is the main red grape in the Rhone valley. The wine it makes is dark and peppery with wonderful fruit overtones. In the southern part of the valley it is usually blended with Grenache as in Côtes du Rhône. In the north it is bottled alone, named after the village where it is grown. A little research is needed to find what you are looking for, but its one of my favorites.
Sauvignon Blanc heralds from the Loire valley in France. Described as grassy, mineral or gooseberries, this white wine is never better any where else in the world. Often overlooked, it is simply delightful matching food with its vibrant acidity. If you get a chance to try some Sancerre, go for it.
Riesling is the only Noble Grape not from France. This wine’s popularity is global even though many people have never tasted real German Riesling. Before World War I, it was the most expensive wine in the world. European politics have done much to diminish its reputation, very unfairly. This wine has the ability to match food that is like no other. Made in styles from austere to voluptuous, there is a challenge for every palate just waiting in the bottle. You will have to research this wine to find a well deserved prize. German wine labels are the most confusing on earth, but well worth the effort. The un-shouldered bottles are green from the Moselle Valley and brown from the Rhine.
When drinking in French Burgundy it’s easy to see what you are drinking. If the wine is white, it’s Chardonnay. If red, it’s Pinot Noir. These are the two great wines from this northern French region. Chardonnay can be firm and mineral, as in Chablis, or luscious and full-bodied, as in Montrachet. Pinot Noir is a finicky little red grape that is hard to grow and vinify. When done right, it is the most sensual of all unmatched in scent, texture and flavor. This is a wine that for some has become their personal muse. I can agree because I have been there. It can be fabulous. Keep sipping, Steve
Steve Juliana of Hummelstown is a wine adviser and a life-long lover of wines.
