Classic Reds

Question 1

Cabernet Sauvignon

Answer 1

TN: Black fruits, mint, eucalyptus, leather, cedarwood
SR: Medoc communes of Margaux, St. Julien, Pauillac, St. Estéphe of Bordeaux. Most CS from Languedoc-Rousillon

Question 2

Merlot

Answer 2

TN: Similar to Cab Sauv, black fruits, chocolate, leather
SR: Bordeaux, outside Medoc (POMEROL, ST. EMILION)
Famous exception: Chateau Petrus of Pomerol 99% Merlot, one of most expensive wines)
Often blended w. Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, etc.

Question 3

Pinot Noir

Answer 3

Sensual, silky, supple, erotic, earthly.
TN: warm baked cherries, damp earth, mushrooms, cigars, chocolate
SR: BURGUNDY (except Beaujolais), Oregon, Cali, Champagne.
Lighter body, far less tannic than Cab Sauv, Merlot, Zinf. Lighter in color. Most difficult to make into wine (sensitive fruit).

Question 4

Syrah

Answer 4

Rustic yet elegant.
TN: leather, damp earth, roasted meat, pepper and spice
SR: RHONE (Hermitage, Cote-Rotie exclusively Syrah), Languedoc-Roussillon, S. Africa