Advanced Wine Selection: Don’t Miss These Four Grape Varieties

▲ There are countless grape varieties, each producing unique wine flavors. (Photo / Provided)

Reported by Reporter Lin Rui-kang / Taipei

In the world of wine, besides the so-called "seven major" grape varieties, there are also two white and two red grape varieties that can serve as references when selecting wine. They are“Pinot Gris” (grayish Pinot), “Chenin Blanc” (white Chenin), “Gamay” (game grape), and “Nebbiolo” (nebbiolo).Wine tasting experts say these four grape varieties are not commonly seen in Taiwan, so if you're lucky enough to come across them, don't miss the chance.

Wine tasting experts point out that “Pinot Gris” isa white grape varietyand goes by two names: “Pinot Gris” in French and “Pinot Grigio” in Italian. In France, Alsace is the classic region for Pinot Gris, where the resulting white wines are full-bodied, with flavors of tropical fruits such as banana and honeydew, and even notes of honey. As for Italy, Pinot Gris is widely planted, yielding wines that are medium to light-bodied, with medium acidity, showcasing nutty flavors and hints of honey.

“Chenin Blanc,”a white grape variety,has its primary Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in Vouvray, France. This wine is medium-bodied, high in acidity, and offers flavors of citrus, green fruits, and tropical fruits, sometimes with a touch of herbal notes. It comes in both sweet and dry styles. In South Africa, it is also widely planted, with a medium body and medium to high acidity, featuring citrus and tropical fruit flavors.

“Gamay,”a red grape variety,is primarily grown in France’s Beaujolais region. Wine experts note that this wine is usually not aged in oak, is rich in red fruit aromas such as strawberry and cherry, and has a medium body and acidity with low tannins. It's best enjoyed when young.

“Nebbiolo,”a red grape variety,is most famously produced in Italy’s Piedmont (Piemonte) region. Its wines are full-bodied, with notably high levels of tannins, acidity, and alcohol, and offer flavors of red fruits paired with floral notes.

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