Have you heard about the 7 Noble Grapes?! If not, you’re in the right place. Understanding the 7 noble grapes is key to expanding yet also simplifying your wine drinking palette. You may have heard this reference while wine tasting or exploring a vineyard. Next time you go wine tasting you won’t need to simply nod your head in agreement whilst thinking about the actual meaning. So, here you are the 7 noble grapes.

The 7 Noble Grapes are 7 international varietals of grapes that are able to grow nearly anywhere and have consistent flavors. There are 3 white grape varietals and 4 red grape varietals: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah (France)/Shiraz. Let me share the basics of what I know about each one.

The Noble White Grapes

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is arguably the best-known grape in the world! This grape varietal is highly regarded because it allows winemakers to put their own signature style on it. The wines from this grape are full-bodied with a rich, creamy texture. Chardonnay is often aged in oak barrels, which gives flavors like vanilla and spice. Cool region chardonnays tend to have aromas of green fruits like apple and pear, citrus notes such as grapefruit, lemon and are high in acidity.

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is intensely fruity and can range from light to medium-bodied with refreshing high acidity. This most always dry style of wine has strong aromas of green fruit like apple or pear, citrus-like grapefruit and lime, and herbaceous notes such as cut grass and green bell pepper.

Riesling

Riesling wines vary immensely. They can range from dry to sweet or light to medium-bodied. Resiling has intense fruity aromas and flavors ranging from fruits like peach and apricot to lime and floral notes.

The Noble Red Grapes

Cabernet Sauvignon

A Cabernet Sauvignon is a true crowd-pleaser. This noble grape has deep colors, is high in tannins, high in acidity, dry, and ranges between medium to full-bodied. Typical flavors include dark fruits black currant and black cherry as well as herbaceous notes like green bell pepper and mint. Oak is often used to soften the tannins and add flavors like spice & vanilla. Cabernet Sauvignon is often blended to create classic blends like Bordeaux (Cabernet Sauvignon + Merlot).

Merlot

Merlot is a softer and milder alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon. They are typically full-bodied with low to medium tannins. They are intensely fruity in flavor and aromas can range from red fruits like plum or strawberry to black fruits like blackberry or black cherry. Richness comes from oak aging and also gives aspects of vanilla and spice.

Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is an elegant grape that is lighter in color and body than the other three noble red grapes. It’s known for its low to medium tannins and high acidity. Pinot Noir wines have flavors of red fruit like strawberry and raspberry.

Syrah / Shiraz

The name Syrah comes from France while the name Shiraz is used widely in most other regions. This grape packs powerful flavors and intensity. The wines made from Syrah tend to be rich and peppery, deeply colored, and full-bodied with medium to high tannins. Aromas include black cherry, black pepper, clove, and herbaceous notes of mint.

What’s your favorite varietal? Have you heard of the 7 Noble Grapes before?

Cheers,
Natalie