This grape originates in Bordeaux, France. It is one of the red blending grapes in Bordeaux red wines, but because of it’s intensity and high tannins, it usually takes a supporting role rather than the lead. Anywhere from 1%-10% of Petit Verdot in a blend is common. Minimal single varietal wines are made from this […]
Ortega is a white grape created in 1948 by grape breeder Hans Breider in Wurtzburg, Germany by crossing Muller-Thurgau and Siegerrebe. It is therefore, a vitis vinifera species rather than a French American hybrid. The variety was named after the Spanish philosopher, José Ortega y Gasset. Ortega is well suited to cool climates and is grown […]
This Sicilian grape can be recognized by its bold dark fruit flavours; think black cherry and plums along with licorice root, tobacco and chili. Typically full bodied like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. The tannins can be high, but not as high as those of Nebbiolo. The acidity levels are moderately high, akin to tangy yoghurt. […]
Montepulciano is a medium-bodied red grape from Central Italy, widely planted in Abruzzo. Good examples are concentrated and offer a spectrum of black fruit along with herbs, bitter chocolate and tobacco. Like many Italian reds it has high acidity and can have grippy tannins. Do not confuse this the Montepulciano grape with Vino Nobile di […]
An Austrian grape characterized by its intense aromas and flavours of citrus fruit, green pepper and cracked white pepper. It makes a very zingy and fresh style where flavours pop in the mouth. Most styles are dry and even when there is some residual sugar, many tasters wont even notice due to the wine’s high […]
The main white grape of Jurancon in south west France. It is intensely flavoured with high acidity, apricot and quince with floral and spicy notes. It has a think skin, which, if not handled carefully can produce overly bitter notes.
A German hybrid grape derived from crossing Riesling with Chancelor. Though it is no longer planted in Germany, it is grown in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. The wines are slightly aromatic, floral, spicy.
Italian white grape from the Veneto region that is part of the Soave blend. It is a very vigorous grape and ripens late, so it needs lots of care in the vineyard to reduce yields in order to ripen it well and produce a quality wine. There can be aromas and flavours of ripe pear, […]
