Grape Varieties Flashcards

1
Q

What flavour profile would be found in a Riesling grown on blue slate?

A

Minerals, green apple

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2
Q

What flavour profile would be found in a riesling grown on iron- rich red slate?

A

Peach, Smoke

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3
Q

What flavour profile would be found in Riesling grown on volcanic soil?

A

Mango, papaya, tropical fruits

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4
Q

Describe a cool climate Riesling?

A
Lean, reserved. 
High, searing acidity. 
Very dry to sweet. 
Citrus fruits and apples
Perfect for seafood and pacific rim cuisine
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5
Q

Describe a warm- climate Riesling

A

Opulent, full bodied

Round, dry to sweet. Tropical fruit. Perfect for rich dishes like venison and duck/ or spicy fare

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6
Q

What is the profile of Muscat?

A

High alcohol.
High extract.
Highly aromatic
Good acid.

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7
Q

What is the profile of Semillon?

A

Subdued aromas.
Waxy/ Lanolin texture
Susceptible to botrytis
Long lived

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8
Q

What is the profile of Cabernet Sauvignon?

A

High tannins.
Moderately high acids.
High pigments
High phenolics

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9
Q

Syrah/ Shiraz is native to___________. It is a cross of____________ and______________.

A

France

Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche

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10
Q

Describe a savoury Pinot noir

A

Complex in flavour profile
Organics: Mushrooms, forest, earth, smoke, barnyard, full bodied weighty, moderate tannins
Exotic: inscence, sandlewood, spice, satin, brushed cotton, hints of flowers

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11
Q

Aromas of_________________ would define a Syrah/ Shiraz

A

Smoke, game, tar, toast, pepper, raspberry, chocolate, herb, musk, char, black olives, mineral, mint, leather, blackberry, sweat, baked earth, spice, lavender, anise, jam, Rosemary

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12
Q

What are the aromas to look for in a Zinfandel?

A

Raspberry, blackberry, black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, anise, tar, jam, black raspberry, raisin, candied fruit, clove, cedar, sandalwood, vanilla, spice

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13
Q

What is the “workhorse grape” of California?

A

Zinfandel

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14
Q

Zinfandel and_________ are different clones of the same variety.

A

Primitivo

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15
Q

What is the profile of Merlot?

A

Moderate tannin
High alcohol
Short on acid

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16
Q

What is the profile of Pinot Noir?

A

Low to moderate tannins
Good acidity
Broad, expansive aroma and bouquet

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17
Q

What is the profile of Zinfandel?

A
Densely pigmented. 
Moderately tannic. 
Alcoholic. 
High extract. 
Good acid.
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18
Q

What is the profile of Syrah/ Shiraz?

A

Heavily pigmented.
Highly tannic.
High alcohol.
Needs time to mature.

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19
Q

What is the profile of Sangiovese

A
Low extract. 
Low pigment. 
High acid
Moderate tannins
Moderate alcohol
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20
Q

What is the profile of Gamay?

A

Low tannins
High acids
Low pigments
Aromatic

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21
Q

What is the properties of Grenache?

A

Low pigment
Low tannin
Low acid
High alcohol

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22
Q

What is the profile of Barbera?

A

High acid
High pigments
Moderate tannins

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23
Q

What grape name is derived from “Nebia”. The fog?

A

Nebbiolo

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24
Q

What is a synonym for Spanna and Chiavennasca?

A

Nebbiolo. Spanna is the name in Piedmont, Chiavennasca in Lombardy

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25
What are the Piedmontese wines that consist of/ or mostly of Nebbiolo?
Barolo Barbaresco Gattinara Ghemme
26
What aromas would describe a Tempranillo?
Cherries, vanilla, strawberries, vellum, leather, lanolin, wood, road dust
27
What is the profile of Tempranillo?
Moderately tannic Low acid High pigment Long- lived
28
What is a synonym for true Riesling?
White Riesling or Johannisberg
29
A Riesling can be described as having aromas of_______________
Apple, passion fruit, pineapple, honeysuckle, Flint, juicy fruit gum, talc, orange blossom, tarragon, hyacinth, slate, stone, peach, lime, honey, apricot, jasmine, ginger, Lemon curd, fennel, grapefruit, kiwi, minerals
30
Which grape variety is believed to be the ancestor from which all other wine grapes descended?
Muscat
31
Nebbiolo can be described as having aromas as______________
Tar, truffles, cocoa, twigs, Forrest floor, bitter chocolate, roses, iris, violets.
32
Describe Calafornia Sauv Blanc
Fig and melon
33
Describe the aromas of Sangiovese
Fresh cherry, toast, sun- baked earth, wood, charcoal, clove, licorice, chocolate, thyme, dried cherry, dried orange peel, spice, leather, black cherry, sour strawberry
34
Translate "Sanguis Jouis" and identify the grape name this relates to?
"Blood of Jupiter" | Sangiovese
35
What are the two dominant clones of Sangiovese?
Sangiovese Grosso and Sangiovese Picolo
36
Prigello and Brunello are clones of____________
Sangiovese
37
What aromas would describe Gamay?
Lily of the valley, raspberry, cranberry, rose, cherry, orange peel, iris, banana, strawberry, violets.
38
The Gamay vine is most successful on________________ soil.
Granitic
39
What aromas would describe Grenache?
Strawberry, ethyl Acetate, sour cherry, black pepper, cranberry, alcohol.
40
Name two synonyms for Grenache and countries of origin
Garnacha- Spain | Cannonau- Sardinia
41
Describe the aromas of Barbera
Mulberry, cherry, vanilla, sour cherry, plum, cinnamon
42
Describe wine made from Blaufrankisch
Moderate tannins, crisp acidity and a peppery, sour cherry flavour. In the right sites. It can express strong mineral flavours. Aging in oak results in sifter acidity and a sweeter fruit.
43
What grape is a cross between Blaufrankisch and St Laurent?
Zweigelt
44
Describe the flavours of Gruner Veltliner wine?
Grew grapes, salad and white pepper in youth developing layers of honey and toast with aging. Mineral flavours are common. The best single vineyard Gruner Veltliners compare in quality and style to very finest white burgundies.
45
Chardonnay can be described as having aromas of_______________
Flint/ stone, citrus, melon, pineapple, banana, apricot, butter, smoke, burnt sugar, caramel, green apple, pears, nuts, honey, peach, ginger, vanilla, oak butterscotch, nutmeg
46
Describe an old wood Chardonnay
Citrus, lemon, grapefruit, Granny Smith, butter, nutty, honey, minerals/ Flint, often very little wood, high and long lived.
47
What is the profile of Nebbiolo?
High acid High tannin High Extract High Alcohol
48
Why is the profile of Sauvignon Blanc?
Aromatic | High in Acid
49
What is the profile of Chenin Blanc?
``` High acid. High extract Aromatic Long lived Very dry to sweet ```
50
Describe the aroma of Cab Franc
Fresh mushrooms, fall leaves, violet, humus/ pitting soil, wild strawberries, cocoa, cranberry, sweet herb, mulberry, moss, tobacco, wet tree bark, tea
51
What are the synonyms for Cabernet Franc?
Bouchy- Southwest France Bretton- Loire Valley Bouchet- Right Bank of Bordeaux
52
Cabernet Franc is native_________________.
Bordeaux
53
Sauvignon Blanc
Green apple, olive, green melon, cat pee, dill, Mint, guava, sweet citrus, smoke, vanilla, basil
54
What is a wine with: Vanilla, white flowers, pear, Apple, honey, citrus- lemon, tangerine, yogurt, citrus, blossoms, mango, nectarine, butter, toast
Chardonnay
55
What is a wine with: Fruit loops, fruit basket, marmalade, lemon, lime, peach, pear skin, apricot, blossom, anise, mineral, vanilla, sweet cream, almond, nougat
Viognier
56
What is a wine with: Apricot, peach, pear, raisin, honeysuckle, geranium, lavender, asphalt, kerosine, anise, tangerine
Riesling
57
What is a wine with: lemon, lime, green melon, Apple, pineapple, honeysuckle, blossom, yogurt, sour cream, ginger, lemon grass, mineral, toast, vanilla, honey
Pinot Gris
58
What is a wine with: jammy fruit, spicy perfume, anise, damp earth, chocolate, coffee, dark cherry, blueberry, watermelon, fruit cake, green herbs, clove, nutmeg, black pepper
Zinfandel
59
What is a wine with: red cherry, strawberry jam, oak, raspberry, Pomegranite, meat, blood, animal, mint, jasmine, mushroom, coffee, cinnamon, clove
Pinot Noir
60
What is a wine with: plum, black cherry, mocha, coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, rose, pot pourri, cherry, tomato, raspberry, tar, leather, capers
Sangiovese
61
What is a wine with: blackberry, cherry, smokey, leather, bacon meat, pepper, chocolate, currant, plum, mint, fruitcake, menthol, pencil, dust, truffle, vanilla, cinnamon
Syrah
62
What is a wine with black cherry and jello
Gamay
63
What is the flavour characteristics if Corvina?
Herby, snappy note overlaid with Black Fruit
64
What's the flavour profile of Arenis?
Peach and apricot flavours, crisp and floral
65
What's the flavour profile of Cortese?
Light fruity with a whiff of candied fruit, ideal with seafood
66
What's the flavour profile of Barbera?
Sour cherry and savoury notes with high acidity and low tannin
67
What is the flavour profile of Nebbiolo?
Red fruit, rose, licorice, hay, high alcohol, tannin and acidity
68
Another name for Muscadet is...........
Melon De Bourgogne
69
Describe Loire Valkey Sav Blanc
Pugnentm Smokey, high minerality.
70
Describe Sav Blanc from Bordeaux
Grassy and Herbal (oregano and thyme)
71
Describe NZ Sav Blanc
Intense, grapefruit and citrus, hints of asparagus and Jalapeño
72
Describe a new world Chardonnay
Tropical fruit, banana and pineapple, apple pie, apple cobbler, butterscotch, caramel, smokey, toasty, vanilla, ginger, nutmeg, very oaky, low acid, short lived
73
Sauv Blanc can be described as having aromas of_______________
Melon, bell pepper, hay, pineapple, musk, celery, kiwi, stone, Gunflint, gooseberry, herbs, jalapeño, pear, fig, grass, cat's pee, lemon, toast, lemon, grass, grapefruit, asparagus, nuts, lemon- lime,
74
Describe a "fruit- driven" Shiraz
Fruit: Blackberry jam Aromatics: Vanilla Bean Organics: Baked earth, smoke, chocolate
75
Semillon can be blended with ________________ and ________________ in Graves, Pessac- Leognan and Sauternes
Sav Blanc and Mucadelle
76
Cabernet Sauvignon can be described as having aromas of ______________.
Black cherry, vanilla, black currant, herbs, blackberry, mint, blueberry, lilac, red currant, toffee, cedar, chocolate, cigar box, pencil shavings, tobacco, black pepper, tea, eucalyptus, coffee, cocoa
77
Describe a warm climate Cabernet Sauvignon
Fruit driven, cherries, milk, chocolate, oak- scented, sweet cigar box, vanilla, supple, eucalyptus/ mint
78
Describe a cool- climate Cabernet Sauvignon
Spice- driven, red currant, cocoa, mocha, cedar- scented, tobacco, lilac, chalky
79
Merlot has been described as having aromas of_________________
Blueberry, cigar box, blueberry, mint, cherry, toffee, black cherry, vanilla, plum, cocoa, prune, coffee, fresh/ grapey, spice, black pepper, chocolate
80
Describe the aromas that may signal a Pinot Noir
Raspberry, cherries, strawberries, blackberries, plum, earth, sandalwood, barnyard, leather, violets, toast, lilac, clove/ cinnamon, truffles, smoke, inscence, west Forrest- floor, meaty- Gamey
81
Spatburgunder is synonym for ___________________
Pinot Noir
82
Describe a "sweet" or "fruity" Pinot Noir
Simple in flavour profile. Fruit driven: raspberry, cherries, strawberries, delicate, light, hints of spice. Floral: violets, lilac, silk and taffeta. Supple tannins.
83
Describe a "spice driven" Syrah
Spice: black pepper, aromatics: Rosemary, lavender, organics: lathered pony, musk, game, Mexican mole sauce
84
Describe favour characteristics of Cab Sauv as it relates to the fruit aspects
Black currants. Cooler regions- notes of green capsicum and cedar wood. Warm climate- black cherry, black olive, fruit character. Australian CS particularly Coonawarra have hints of mint, eucalyptus or menthol
85
Describe flavour characteristics of Chenin Blanc
High in acidity and unusual fruit characteristics. Vegetal notes, aromas of green apples and Flavors of citrus pith in young, dry CB
86
Describe flavour characteristics of Pinot Gris
At its best. Almost oily, rather high in alcohol, and low in acidity. Rich, aromatic, exotic fruit, such as melon, ripe Banana and mango, and sometimes botrytis flavours can appear in dry wine. In Italy for Pinot Grigio, a different approach is taken. They are harvested early to retain acidity and avoid development of too much fruitiness. Wines are generally light and fairly neutral in character.
87
Describe the flavour characteristics of Tempranillo by describing tannin levels, Colour and 2 other characteristics
Light levels of tannin and colour, nose of soft leather and ripe strawberries
88
Describe the flavour characteristics of Sangiovese
Typically not aromatic grape. High in acidity w/ sour red cherry. Sometimes astringent tannins and earthy, dusty aromas reminiscent of tea leaves.
89
Describe the flavour characteristics of Pinot Noir
Young PN displays a fruity perfume of raspberries, strawberries or red cherries w/ soft, light tannins- seldom deep in colour. With age, vegetal and farmyard aromas develop.
90
Describe the flavour characteristics of Grenache
High in alcohol and full- bodies with soft tannins. Pale in colour and oxidise easily (browning at the rim). Red fruit flavours (strawberry, raspberry) and hints of white pepper: which develops into flavours of leather, tar and toffee as the wine ages.
91
Describe the flavour characteristics of Syrah
Very dark in colour and has blackberry fruit flavours. Cooler climates- the tannins can be very high and the blackberry fruit can be accompanied by notes of black pepper and sometimes mint. Hot climates- more full bodied, with soft tannins and earthy, leathery and spice notes that are more like liquorice and anise.
92
Describe the flavour characteristics of Merlot
Harvested late: blackberry and plum fruit, soft velvety textured tannins combine with a rich full body to high alc and concentrated fruit. Harvested early to make a more lighter body + alcohol wine w/higher acidity and more red fruit (rasp, ripe straw) and maybe even vegetal, leafy aromas
93
Describe flavour characteristics of Sauv Blanc
Cool regions v/ poor soils produce classic green herbaceous, gooseberries, green- pepper, grass, passionfruit or elderflower. Warmer regions fails to develop much aromatic flavour and has just hints of peach. Some can develop vegetal aromas of peas and asparagus.
94
Describe flavour characteristics of Chardonnay
Cool climate- steely wines. Med to light body. High acidity apple or green plum fruit. Slight warmer regions: Impact more citrus flavours. Hotter regions: lend to more melon and peach and even exotic flavours like banana, mango and fig. Hotter regions: will be full- bodied, high in alcohol and low in acidity. Not an aromatic varietal but oaking and ML are used to contribute to flavour.
95
What is a wine with: black currant, black cherry, raspberry, dusty earth, cigar box, black olive, coffee, chocolate, eucalyptus, mint, graphite, pencil
Cabernet Sauvignon
96
Tempranillo? (Rioja Reserva/ Gran Reserva)
Stewed fruits, desiccated fruits, tart, red raspberry, tobacco, sweet and sour (Chinese restaurant aroma), dill p, bay leaf, ripe strawberries, coconut, medium plus acid, medium- medium plus alcohol
97
Grenache?
Dehydrated strawberries, strawberry jam, raspberry, black cherry, black pepper, raisins, powdered sugar, Grenadine, oxidative, sweetness to the fruit on finish
98
Sangiovese (Tuscany)
Sour red cherry, cherry pith, licorice, root fennel, black tea, leaf underbrush, high acid
99
Malbec (Argentina)
Blueberry, ripe plum, blackberry, green coffee bean, violets, magenta/ electric pink rim, bright acid
100
Zinfandel?
Plum skin, cranberry, blueberry jam, blackberry pie, peppercorn, peach yogurt, high alcohol
101
Syrah?
Raspberry, blackberry, sometimes blueberry, freshly cracked black pepper, smoked meat/ bacon fat, leather, violets
102
What is Kerner?
A white grape crossing (Trollinger x Riesling) found in Germany and Northern Italy
103
What is the difference between Blaugunder and Blauburgunder in Austria?
Blauburgunder is a crossing of Blaver Portugesiser x Blaufrankisch, and Blauburgunder is an Austrian synonym Pinot Noir
104
Carmenere is a crossing of what two varieties?
Cros Cabernet x Cabernet Franc
105
What is the most common name for Picotendre?
Nebbiolo
106
What is the flavour profile of Soave DOC?
Floral notes of Camomile and Iris with surprising acidity
107
What is the grape variety for: a) St Bris, b) Cheverny, c) Bourgeil, d) Cote Rotie, d) Barrada
a) Sav Blanc, Sav Gris, b) 100% Romorantin, c) Cabernet Franc and Cab Sav (max 100%), d) Cote Rotie- Syrah+ Viognier (20%), e) Barrada- Red= Baga (min 50%) plus other locals
108
Gouais
Light- skinned grape variety that produced overly acid wines. Now a rarity.
109
What are the generic parents of Chardonnay?
Gouais Blanc x Pinot
110
Albariño is also known as___________
Alvarinho
111
Nebbiolo (Northern Italy)
Dried sour red cherry, tar, dried rose petal, red licorice, anise, truffle, mushrooms, clay, cinnamon stick, maraschino cherry, high tannin, high acid, medium plus high alcohol.
112
Cabernet Sauvignon
Blackcurrant, black plum, green bell pepper, tobacco, sage, edgy texture
113
Merlot?
Plum, black berry, chocolate, fern leaf, round shape/ texture
114
Cabernet Franc (Loire)
Tart red raspberry, Blackcurrant, red- current, green bell pepper, stemmy/ twiggy, jalapeño, cut grass, violets, tart finish, pronounced earth, brettomyces often encountered
115
Vermentino is also known as
Folle
116
Macabeu is also known as
Viura
117
Which of the following grape varieties has the highest natural tannin level? Cabernet Franc, Gamay, Merlot, Syrah
Syrah
118
A wine with an aromatic profile of wheat berries, straw flower, toasted brioche, clotted cream, pear and hazelnut is likely to be......
Chenin Blanc
119
What is common synonym for Pinot Grigio?
Pinot Gris, Rulander, Grau Burgunder
120
Which white grape variety is likely to be given the following cellar treatments: barrel fermentation, Malo- lactic fermentation, and Sur Lee aging with batonage?
Chardonnay
121
True or false, Barbera is a tannic grape variety related to Zinfindel
False
122
What is Welshriesling and name some of its synonyms in various countries
A variety unrelated to true Riesling, producing less delicate wines with lower acidity. Welschriesling- Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria Laski Riesling- Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia Olasz Rizling- Hungary
123
What two regions produce the world's best Viognier?
Condrieu and Chateau Grillet in Northern Rhone
124
Name three types of Muscat and their most famous wines
MBPG- Asti, Muscat De Beaunes De Venise, Constantia, Muscat of Samos, Rutherglen Muscat of Alexandria- Spanish Moscatel, Muscat De Riversaltes Muscat Ottonel- Dry white wines of Alsace and Central Europe
125
Chenin Blanc can be called what in South Africa?
Steen
126
From what region and subregions is Chenin Blanc most prized? In what styles are the wines produced?
Loire, France. Touraine- Touraine (Dry fairly rare), Vouvray (Dry, sweet, still- sparkling). Anjou- Samur- Samur (Dry- sweet), Anjou (Most recently, dry) Coteaux Du Layon (Sweet), Quarts De Chaume and Bonnezeaux, Savennieres (Late harvest, Dry)
127
What attribute can be a potential problem for Chenin Blanc and how is it resolved?
Ripens unevenly, pickers pass through vineyards in successive 'tries' harvesting optimally ripe grapes and discarding those that have started to rot.
128
What is the most widely planted red grape in Spain?
Garnacha
129
What are the genetic parents of Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Franc x Sauvignon Blanc
130
Chardonnay?
Hazelnut, golden apple, lemon, soft cheese rind, pineapple (new world styles), butter (new world styles), rich texture
131
Sauvignon Blanc?
Grapefruit, grass, gooseberry, tarragon, chervil (Sancerre), jalapeño, passionfruit (New Zealand)
132
Gewürztraminer (Alsace)
Lychee, rose, pot pourri, grapefruit pith, candied ginger, bitter finish
133
Viognier?
Peachy, orange peel, apricot, mandarin, orange blossom, honeysuckle, vanilla, fruit loops, mango, medium low- medium acid, weighty texture, bitter finish
134
Muscat?
Orange candy, rose petal
135
Pinot Grigio (Italy)
Lemon rind, melon, peanut shell, flat beer, bitter finish
136
Pinot Gris (Alsace)
White mushroom, sweet pear, green apple, honey, potting soil, small amount of RS, white flowers, slightly bitter finish
137
Riesling?
Apricot, peach, petrol, lime zest (Aussie Riesling), lime blossom, slate, high acid, linear texture
138
Albariño (Rias Baixas)
Fresh ripe peach, Orange oil, juicy fruit gum, creamy texture- bright finish, some times slightly oxidative (very subtle balanced almonds)
139
Gruner Veltliner?
White pepper, lentils, watercress, celery, lime blossom, lime, under ripe stone fruits, subtle bitterness on finish
140
Chenin Blanc (Loire)
Bruised red apple (oxidative), honey, chamomile, wasabi, tangerine, pronounced chalk/ limestone, wet wool, high acid
141
Pinot Noir?
Black cherry, red cherry, strawberry, cranberry, violets, tomato leaf, cola nut, black tea.
142
Gamay (Beaujolais)
Strawberry,clack cherry, pear drop, bubblegum, violets, banana, pronounced crushed granite
143
A Semillon dessert wine would have aromas of __________________
Melon, pineapple, tropical fruit citrus, honey, caramel, minerals, spice, peach, apricot, nectarine, butterscotch, vanilla, flowers, nuts
144
True or false: Grenache is a high acid red?
False
145
What is Pais?
Grape used for making rustic table wine or brandy
146
What is Romorantin?
A red grape
147
Ugni Blanc is also known as________
Trebbiano
148
Picpoul is also known as______________
"Lip stinger"
149
Chenin Blanc can be described as having aromas of_____________
Creme fraiche, sour cream, plain yogurt, clotted cream, buttermilk, almond, straw, flowers, hazelnut, ripe grain, marzipan, nuts, toasted bread, lemon, melon, Apple, apricot, pear, dried flowers, orange peel
150
Chenin Blanc grows best on ________________soils
Tufa or Chalk
151
Pinot Gris/ Pinot Grigio can be described as having aromas of __________________
Apple, butter, almond, mineral, steel, honey, peach, lemon, pear, chalk, Flint, orange, blossom, honeysuckle, cream
152
Gewürztraminer can be described as having aromas of________________
Nutmeg, citrus, peel, lychee nut, bayberry, grapefruit, rose, ginger, sandalwood, cardamon, all spice, pine
153
Viognier can be described as having aromas of_________________
Grass, honey, apricot, citrus, orange, peel, musk, passionfruit, kiwi, peach, gooseberry, ginger, honeysuckle, lemongrass, tangerine, guava, mango
154
Muscat can be described as having aromas of________________
Musk, burnt caramel, honey, orange blossom, honeysuckle, rose water, peach, lime blossom, apricot, white raisin, mango, mousiness/ earthiness, citrus, fresh grapes, gardenia,
155
________________ is believed to be the ancestor from which all wine grapes descended
Muscat
156
Describe an unfortified Muscat
Fresh grapes, fresh white raisins, mango, apricot, honeysuckle, citrus, orange blossom, rose water
157
Describe a fortified Muscat
Concentrated must, fresh white raisins, "in a rum", dried mango, dried apricots, rose petal, crystallised honey, citrus peel, orange zest
158
A Semillon table wine would smell of_______________
Pear, lanolin, nuts, flowers, citrus, wax, honey, minerals
159
What is the profile of Pinot Gris/ Grigio?
Low acid or high acid. High extract. Pinot Gris/ Pinot Grigio can have little or no aroma or can have subtle fruit and floral notes.
160
What is the profile of Gewürztraminer?
Ripens to high sugar levels: this can equate to high alcohol levels in the wine. High extract. Low acid. Aromatic. Very dry to sweet.
161
What is the profile of Viognier?
Profoundly aromatic. Low acid. Ripens to high sugar levels: this can equate to high alcohol levels in the wine high extract.
162
What is the profile of Cabernet Franc?
Moderate tannins. Moderate pigments. Moderate to high acid. Light to medium body.
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Chardy.......
4% of global production, lots being planted in the East of Europe. Trad: Spur pruned but some cane pruned. Can be associated with high alc. Lees stirring, malo lees contact, skin contact. Chardy sells!!! Susceptible: Powdery Mildew, Botrytis (Burg). Thin skinned.
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Sauv Blanc
2.4% global plantings. Cool- moderate climate. Might be part of the Savignan family. Italy Alto Adige- region kind of unknown for it. Chile: Sauvignon Americana (Real), Sauvignon Ass (Fruliano- Italy), California. NZ, OZ, USA- Fume Blanc. Sth Africa- mineral and savouriness. Not grown a lot in the world- awesome in an exam!!! Issues: Too much vigour- herbaceous, big canopies in NZ. Semillon, Chardy- for bulk blends. Alas not much above 13%. Can age from Loire, Bordeaux, Grave
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Semillon
One of the most over looked grapes in the world. Ages sooooo well. Alcs 10.5%, acidity high, usually water white. France: Mainly planted as a blend. In Hunter it is mainly picked on Australia Day, South Africa: Fortified- used to be
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Riesling
50,060 hectares, 1.1% world plantings. Germany, Alsace- no where else in France, Sth Australia, Ny State, NZ (increasingly). Cane pruned can be pruned through (but overcropping issues). Cold climates.
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Pinot Gris
1% of plantings globally. It grows late. Alto Adige, but right through Italy. Barrel fermented, residual sugar. Can be pink.
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Gewurztraminer
Ripens late. 0.3%. Oily texture, may have a pinky tinge. NZ and Alsace, Germany, Moldova. Trainer: more acid, no spiciness, rosewater.
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Pinot Blanc
0.32% global. Central France, Burgundy- origins. Mid ripener. Alsace (13,000 hectares) Germany, Italy (Pinot Bianco). Cane Pruned. Frizzante- Italy, Austria- TBA wines, Germany- Usually Trocken. Leafroll virus- especially in Baden. Like Chardonnay, but lighter bodied. Lots of different synonyms. Workhorse variety.
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Chenin Blanc
0.75% of plantings. Anjou origin. Bursts early ripens late, thick skinned. Lots of different styles are made in Loire. South Africa- Dry, sparkling (Cap Clasdsique), High acid. California- Workhorse. Hourton's white burgundy (with Verdelho). Hence why it lasted so long. Biggest problem unripe in Loire (Green). Great grape winemakers love it.
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Viognier
0.25% plantings. Possibly from Croatia (related to Syrah and Nebbiolo- maybe). Wine styles is difficult low acid. Easy to get really ripe (almost overnight). Cane pruned. Vigour issues. Blended with Syrah/ Shiraz, Rousanne/ Marsanne
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Muscat
200 types of Muscat. 350 synonyms. MBPG- oldest grape. Spur Pruned (Cordon Trained). Does every style. Muscat of Alex. (Nrth Africa)
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Trebbiano/ Ugni Blanc
Spur pruned. Some in Argentina. Neutral wine. Cognac/ Armanac. Heaps of synonyms. Used to bulk up blends.
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Muller- Thurgau
Aromatics of riesling, ripens earlier (Madeleine Royale). Susceptible to rot. Rotbrenner- rot disease only strikes M/T in Germany. Doesn't age.
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Seyval Blanc
French hybrid. Spur/ Caned. Oak/ Lees contact.
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Vidal
Uni Blanc/ Sebal. Some table wines.
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Pinot Noir
86,662 ha. Most common in France. Spatsburgunder- spicy, 10-12.5%, lots of fresh red fruits lots like rose, not much oak, but more of a push, mainly Baden. Cane Pruned- single or double guyot. Bunch rot (clones have compact bunched), such interesting clones- not expected to know them all
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Meunier
Is not Pinot Meunier anymore
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Cabernet Sauvignon
Most planted grape (taken over Airen). Long extended ripening season. 2/3 planted in Bordeaux- more merlot planted. Languedoc, Loire- Anjou, Tuscany: More and More, Spain: RDD, Priorate (Not so much Rioja), Aus: Coona, Marg River, NZ: Hawkes Bay, Sth Africa: Stellenbosch (Mainly Bordeaux blends), Chile: Maipo Valley- most planted variety, very Blackcurrant (lots of Oak), Atgentina: Mendoza, California: Napa, St Helena, Mt Vedder, have to get over the fog, Bulgaria, cane pruned, blended with local varieties
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Oregon Pinot Noir
Very cherry. Used to use cherry wood in the past.
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Cabernet Franc
Powdery. Tomato Leaf, olive tapenade. Cool climate. Often blended. NZ starting increase plantings.
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Merlot
Not far behind Cab Sauv. Cane Pruned. Blend with Cab Sauv, Cab Franc, Italian varietals. Easy to ripen, but in Aus a lot of chicken and hen.
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Syrah/ Shiraz
4% global plantings. Originated in Rhone (cross with both). Rhone: Goblet, spur or cane pruned. Syrah: Quite jammy, floral with viognier. Loves oak. Rounder tannins.
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Grenache/ Garnacha
Global ranking: 7 (Spain now biggest producer). Oxidises quickly, an issue that it is in a hot climate. Can have vigour issue.
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Tempranillo
Ranked 4 (surprising). Tannins (Malbec, with dustiness)
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Barbera
Lots of different synonyms. Spur pruned. Don't confuse tannin with acid.
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Sangiovese
1/2 Tuscan, 1/2 South Italy. Mostly on cane. 30 clones, but pulled out 13 clones. Sour cherry, savoury, high tannins, linear. Like swallowed a sword. Old and new oak. Blended with merlot, trebbiano, cabernet. Thin skinned, can suffer from botrytis.
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Zinfandel/ Primitivo
Mostly in Italy. Pink Zin- cheap, rose. High alcohol. Yes and no oak. Bernadine- Meg's aroma. Primitivo: 14.5%, sweet shiraz, oak- new and old.
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Ruby Cabernet
Carignan/ Cab Sauv. Huge in California. In OZ used to fortified or bag in a box. Spur pruned.
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Pinotage
Good in high rainfall areas. Isoamyl acetate- VA aroma (cheap nail polish)- cool, ferment temps. Don't dismiss them, coming good
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Rondo
0.0% ranking. Hybrid Zaria Zeruto
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Chardonnay
Very viscous! Cold climate – citrus, Moderate climate – peach, stone fruit, Warm climate – tropical
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Burgundy- Chardonnay
``` Pure stone fruit Lifted acidity Usually oaked, well integrated oak Butter, diacetytl from malo Savoury character Corton – Charlemagne, very different style, drinks almost like a red wine, big, rich, steely, nutty, oaky ```
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Chablis- Chardonnay
Pure fruit, always green fruit, apples, sometimes unripe stone fruit: white peach High acidity Very mineral Not much oak Usually unoaked, old oak only (Grand Crus)
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Australia- Chardonnay
Riper fruit, usually Tropical fruit eg. pineapple, mango Lower acidity than Burgundy and Cali Viscous and ripe on the palate sometimes clumsy Much more oak than Burgundy and Cali Very malolactic
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California- Chardonnay
Similar to Burgundy style if from colder area like Russian River or Carneros, even alcohol tend to be similar Not as tropical as Australia More lees less wood than Australia Acidity higher then Australia bit lower than Côte de Beaune
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Chile- Chardonnay
Herbaceous, slightly vegetal Cheep ones are very flat, dull and tropical Can be much better balanced and fresher If comes from cooler area like San Antonio or Casablanca Overall the oak is better integrated in Burgundy than in the new world Chardonnays
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Sancerre/ Pouilly Fume- Sav Blanc
Mostly green fruit + citrus, limey, bitter citrus, apple High acidity, high malic acid Chalky minerality, crushed stone like Not too alcoholic – usually less than Chardonnay
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New Zealand- Sav Blanc
``` More tropical fruit, gooseberries, fresh cut grass, bell pepper, asparagus Herbaceous Classic style is unoaked More stony than chalky minerality Slightly higher alcohol than Loire Slightly lower acidity than Loire ```
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Chile- Sav Blanc
``` Tinned vegetables like aromas Lower acidity than Loire and New Zealand Can be bit oily on the palate Less minerals to Loire and New Zealand Flat and vegetal if from central valley ```
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Viognier
High viscosity, lifted glycerol, rich texture, lower acidity
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Condrieu- Viognier
``` Stone fruit, dried apricot Relatively aromatic Historically unoaked Viscous Soft acidity Texture similar to Pinot Gris ```
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California- Viognier
More tropical fruit, pineapple, popcorn, butterscotch Less aromatic High alcohol
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Chenin Blanc
High level of malic acid
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Loire Valley- Chenin Blanc
``` Predominant Apple, green apple, honeyed apple when ages High acidity Minerally – tuffa soil = limestone Medium alcohol Bad quality – wet wool, powdery nose ```
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South Africa- Chenin Blanc
More tropical fruit than apple Lower acidity Bad quality – diluted hot alcohol
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Alsace- Pinot Grigio & Pinot Gris
``` Cooked quinces, some apple, more quince than apple though Darker colour, almost amber Quite full bodied, more glycerol Spicy Higher alcohol ```
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Italy- Pinot Grigio & Pinot Gris
``` Apple and pear fruit Mild spices, white pepper Less alcohol to Alsace Less viscous Quite neutral ```
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Alsace- Pinot Blanc
Usually round 12.5% – 13% abv Lemon, quite neutral grape Grapey Hard to describe
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Italy- Pinot Blanc
Even more neutral | Medium acidity, looses acidity as ages
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Alsace- Gewürztraminer
``` Lychee Spicy, clove, nutmeg, ginger, honey, Turkish delight Very aromatic Touch of sweetness Viscous – lots of glycerol Low to medium acidity ```
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Bordeaux- Semillon
Historicaly more Semillon than Sauv. Bl. now its other way around Citrus, lemon develops honey, marmalade when ages waxy Weighty
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Hunter Valley- Semillon
``` Only 9-10%abv Very citric Mineraly No oak Very long aging capacity ```
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Riesling
Grape with highest level of tartaric acid almost as high as Cab. Sauv.
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German- Riesling
``` Round 8% abv, if dry almost like Alsace 12,5% – 13% abv Citric & stone fruit Floral Soft spice, some ginger Steely character Very long aging capacity ```
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Alsace- Riesling
``` Steely Usually drier then Germany Richer A lot of Petrol More viscous Higher alcohol Clare Valley Almost like a lime cordial Very citric Medium body on the palate Less petrol Up to 13%abv ```
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Austria- Riesling
More spicy and no petrol Higher alcohol Usually drier than Germany but sometimes some residual sugar Firm acidity
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Alsace- Muscat
Dry, medium acidity More rose petal than lychee Less spice
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Grüner Veltliner
``` Citric, lime, lemon, apple and peach when riper White pepper Phenolic Relatively aromatic Lifted acidity Medium viscosity ```
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Albariño- Rias Baixas
``` 12.5% – 13% abv Apricots not as much as Viognier though Not as ripe as Viognier Slightly aromatic High acidity Low glycerol Baby brother of a Viognier Mineraly ```
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Garganega (Soave)
``` Grapey Almonds, hint of marzipan Not aromatic, rather neutral Slightly oily Medium viscosity Often lacks acidity ```
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Torrontes (Argentina)
``` Should be dry! Aromatic Some tropical fruit Citric Less fruity than Gewurz Phenolic=grape skins Bitter edge Can be oily, high glycerol Perfumed ```
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Muscadet/Melon de Bourgogne
``` Apple and citrus fruit Lifted malic acid Up to 12%abv Very neutral in taste Almost steely Leesy, bready Not aromatic ```
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Cabernet Sauvignon
Highest level of tartaric acid, one of the highest tannin levels and darkest colour, Full bodied, high extract, works well with oak, especially French oak. Good minerality. Herbaceous (especially marginal climates) but less than Cabernet Franc. As it ripens gets richer more cassis than black currant, jammy with notes of tar, especially South African. When aged gets leathery notes, pronounced minerality but still black fruit orientated, more dried fruit though.
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Bordeaux- Cabernet Sauvignon
``` High acidity, high tannin. Moderate alcohol (in general) Graphite, pencil shavings Herbaceous (crushed leaves) Cedar wood Not much spice Black fruit compote when age Herbaceous. ```
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California- Cabernet Sauvignon
``` Vanilla, coconut from American oak, Cassis, jammy, Softer tannins Bit lower acidity Most alcoholic due to late picking ```
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Australia (Coonawarra)- Cabernet Sauvignon
``` Nearest to Bordeaux, Getting riper and more alcoholic nowadays, Touch more alcohol to Bordeaux, Minty notes. More cassis than blackcurrant ```
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Chile- Cabernet Sauvignon
Minty, herbal and vegetal notes | Alcohol not as high as California but still around 14%abv
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South Africa- Cabernet Sauvignon
Can be herbaceous and smoky with notes of tar | Smoke is coming from the barrels in this case. Touch of spices but no pepper
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Merlot
Medium acidity, medium tannin, softer than Cabernet, slightly higher alcohol than Cabernet, 0.5 more usually, lighter in body.
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Bordeaux- Merlot
Mirror of Cabernet Sauvignon but one notch lower except alcohol (around 0.5 more)Levels of extracts is the same but a different profile. More plum fruit (ripe Victoria plum), Tends to have less oak, when ages, Develops toffee, caramelised sugar aromas (top Pomerol), Old Merlot tastes fatter on the palate than old Cabernet, is softer and more full. Noticed pronounced minerality.
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Chile- Merlot
``` Rounded, Jammy, Tinned vegetables, herbaceous Alcohol about 0.5 more than Bordeaux. Much more black fruit than Bordeaux, blackberry, blackcurrant, No plum fruit, never mineral ```
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California- Merlot
``` Unbelievably alcoholic Big extract Black fruit, due to long maceration Lots of new American oak Pastel fruit comparing to Cabernet Sauvignon ```
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Cabernet Franc
Medium everything but high acidity, more malic than tartaric, bramble fruits – apples, blackberries, pencil shavings, cedar. It can be a little bit vegetal.
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Loire Valley- Cabernet Franc
``` Medium alcohol Aggressive malic acid when unripe Vegetal Quite herbaceous Rustic, earthy, green More vegetal than Cabernet Sauvignon More forest fruit than red and blackcurrant No oak influence, no minerals. Alcohol always around 12.5% ```
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Rhône Valley- Syrah/Shiraz
High tannin Medium alcohol Deep colour, high extract Medium to high acidity, more malic than tartaric acid Not as big tannin as Cabernet, medium alcohol (around 13%) Less natural partner with oak Less obvious oak Hermitage – blackberry, blueberry, black olive, bacon, black pepper, smoke, gamey, lavender oil Côte Rôtie – roasted herbs, meaty In general – blackberry, garrique, black olive, black pepper, bacon fat, smoke, meaty, gamey, roasted meat when gets older
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Australia- Syrah/ Shiraz
Higher alcohol High tannins but softer Lower acidity Eucalyptus notes Blackberry jam Iodine, leather, medicinal, much more vanilla than in Rhône, creamy In cool climate touch of black pepper, nutmeg, roasted meat, in warmer more glycerol, riper tannins, lower acidity Hunter Valley – leather, iodine Barossa – halfway Margaret River – similar to Rhône, black olives but Rhône is more floral
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Pinot Noir
Very short ripening grape.
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Burgundy- Pinot Noir
Very mineral As ages dump earth, animal, meaty, earthy notes, savoury Nebbiolo like Côte de Beaune more red fruit Côte de Nuits more black fruit Top notch wines have red and dark berry fruit Raspberry, forest fruit, cherry fruit when young Medium body and extract Medium tannin, even in grand cru (but here more wood tannin) High level of malic acid
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New Zealand- Pinot Noir
Decline in acidity More alcoholic Becomes more darker and riper in warm areas and loses minerality Red and dark cherry notes
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California- Pinot Noir
More new French oak Russian River and Carneros similar to New Zealand Ripe black fruit cooked fruit and figs A lot of mouthfeel, but no minerals
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Australia- Pinot Noir
Burgundy style Lower acidity, higher alcohol than Burgundy. riper fruit Slightly jammy, cinnamon from the wood
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Chile (Casablanca)- Pinot Noir
Not as ripe as California Smoky, minty Fruit driven
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Chateauneuf du Pape -Grenache
Medium acidity and tannin Full body High alcohol Colour pinot noir like Red berry fruit when young, baked bread/pastry Top examples black fruit, pastry, baked bread, liquorice, dried fruit notes, white pepper, lot of spices When gets really ripe develops dried fruit, liquorice, treacle Not a lot of minerality Historically ages in Foudres instead of new wood Indian spice, ginger, nutmeg etc. When aged gets meaty notes. It doesn’t work really well with wood
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Rioja/Ribera del Duero -Tempranillo
Medium everything Higher tannins when aged in new wood A lot of vanilla from American wood In young examples a lot of strawberry and cherry Reserva, Gran Reserva – leather, gamey, vanilla Modern style black fruit with some Cabernet Sauvignon ie. Marques de Riscal Exaggerates jammy nature when Grenache is added. No minerality The more aged the more oxidative it becomes
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Gamay
Carbonic maceration – deep colour, rubber aromas, quite high alcohol, low tannins, fruity.
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Beaujolais- Gamay
``` Medium body Quite high malic acid Quite high alcohol Low tannins Notes of rubber if carbonic maceration Confected sweets, black fruit, bubble gum, banana, no minerality ```
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Corvina blends
``` Amarone Cooked red and black fruit Very full bodied Very high alcohol Essentially dry but has a sweet edge Historically with no oak ```
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Barbera- Piedmont
``` High acidity Low to medium tannin Medium body Medium alcohol Classic bramble fruit, apples, blackberry, raspberries, bitter-sweet cherries. Fruity, a little sour but easy drinking Historically with no oak ```
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Malbec- Argentina
High tannin High acidity Medium plus body Dark colour, a lot of extraction Very dark fruit, black plum, black cherry, blackcurrant, cassis Soft spices, herbal notes, peppery notes, slightly minty
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Zinfandel- Sonoma
Medium colour, deep if a lot of wood Medium tannin Very full bodied Very ripe Christmas pudding fruit. Peach yoghurt. Red and dark berries, plum fruit, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, creamy, savoury Thin fruit and high alcohol in bad examples
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Pinotage- South Africa
``` High tannin High alcohol Medium acidity Dark fruit, stewed prune Overlay of tar and treacle, earthy, rustic, quite bitter Bitter finish Burned Christmas pudding Unpleasant leathery and smoky notes ```
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Nebbiolo- Piedmont
``` Very high malic and tartaric acid High tannins Dry and austere Medium colour at the most Full bodied High alcohol (13.5+) When young red berry fruit, sometimes dark forest fruit, rose petal, menthol notes, extremely mineral, very pure red and dark cherry fruit, lavender, tar – comes with age Seems to hold fruit with age Usually gets just a touch of oak ```
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Sangiovese- Chianti
``` Medium to high acidity Medium to high tannin Colour is darker and deeper than Nebbiolo Overall black fruit, assam tea, red and black cherry More French oak Not great deal of minerality A lot of leathery notes Brunello di Montalcino More black fruit More alcohol Everything a notch up to Chianti It’s more oxidative (Slovenian oak) Bigger structure, hint of jam fruit and raisins Toasty from the barrels ```
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Carménère- Chile
``` Medium acidity Medium body High alcohol Medium colour Black fruit, blackcurrant, jammy White pepper notes Incomparable to other varieties ```
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Pinot Meunier is named after
"Miller" the French term due to the dusty white flour like powder that occurs on the underside of its leaves
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Sciacarello
(sometimes written Sciaccarello and Sciaccarellu) is a speciality of the French island of corsica where plantings had grown to 906 ha/2,238 acres by 2011. dna profiling has established that both Sciacarello and the Corsican variety known as Malvasia Montanaccio are in fact the genetically important mammolo of Tuscany. The grape variety is capable of producing red fruit-flavoured if not necessarily deep-coloured reds and fine rosés that can smell of the island’s herby scrubland. The vine has good disease resistance and thrives particularly successfully on the granitic soils in the south west around Ajaccio and Sartène. It buds and ripens late and is less important than nielluccio.
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Nielluccio
Corsica’s name for sangiovese, probably brought there by the genoese who ruled the island until the late 18th century. Often blended with sciacarello (Mammolo), it constitutes an increasing proportion of the island’s appellation contrôlée reds and, particularly, rosés, for which it is especially suitable. It is the principal ingredient in Patrimonio, on whose clay-limestone soils it thrives. It buds early and ripens late and is therefore susceptible to late frosts in spring and rot during the harvest.
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Tibouren
Could almost be said to be the Provençal grape variety but dna profiling has shown it to be identical to rossese di Dolceacqua. It has a long history in south east France and the ability to produce such quintessentially Provençal wines as earthy rosés with a genuine scent of the garrigue (its wine is not naturally deep in colour). In 2011 total French plantings were still about 450 ha/1,110 acres, almost all in the Var. Tibouren is cultivated by a number of the more quality- and history-conscious producers of Provence and some of them bottle it as a varietal rosé. Particularly early-budding, it is sensitive to coulure and therefore yields irregularly. Its original sphere of influence was around St-Tropez, where it is thought by some to have been imported as recently as the end of the 18th century by a naval captain Antiboul, after whom it was named.
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Isabella
Sometimes Isabel and Isabelle, widely distributed vitis labrusca american hybrid of unknown origin. It is said to have been named after a southern belle, Mrs Isabella Gibbs, and to have been developed in South Carolina in 1816. It can withstand tropical and semi-tropical conditions and has been planted widely, notably in moldova, brazil, where it is by a substantial margin the most common vine variety, and india where it is known as Bangalore Blue. In New York state, it was one of the first hybrids to be planted after phylloxera’s late-19th-century devastation but it has largely been replaced by concord. New plantings were banned in France in 1934. The vine is high yielding but the wines are very obviously foxy.
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Albarino
Albariño is a wine that deserves extended sniffing in your glass. It has a dramatic aromatic intensity as a result of the higher levels of two aromatic compound groups called terpenes and thiols. Expect aromas of lemons, limes, pear, grapefruit, honeysuckle, nectarine, and occasionally orange zest and beeswax, supported by subtle smells of freshly wetted granite and Thai basil when sniffing your glass. When you taste Albariño, you’ll instantly delight in its mouth-watering acidity, somewhat weighty mid-palate, saltiness, and long tingly finish that often has a subtle bitter note (almost like grapefruit pith).
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Where does Albarino grow?
Albariño is indigenous to the Iberian peninsula and is most commonly found in “Green Spain,” in Galicia, where vineyards receive the cooling breezes from the Atlantic ocean. You’ll find most Spanish Albariño wines labeled from Rias Baixas (“rhee-yus by-shus”), which is a sub. In Portugal (where the grape is known as Alvarinho), you’ll find it blended into Vinho Verde wines with other rare white varieties like Arinto, Azal, Loureiro, and Trajadura. Beyond its homeland in the Iberian peninsula, Albariño is starting to spread internationally due to the grape’s high quality and similarity in taste to wines like Pinot Gris, Chenin Blanc, and dry Riesling. You’ll find Albariño also in California, Argentina, New Zealand, Brazil, and even Uruguay.
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Ideal Terroir for Albarino
The region where Albariño grows in Spain is much cooler and rainier than the rest of the country. The main Albariño region, Rias Baixas, skirts along the coast and the vineyards closer to the sea are known to have the most salinity (from the ocean breezes) and highest minerality. This area has a high prevalence of deep, sandy granite soils which is thought to be the most ideal soil type for this grape. - In warmer regions with more clay, you’ll notice Albariño wines will have riper fruit characteristics (more apricot, nectarine, and mango) and less acidity. - In cooler regions with more sandy soils, you’ll notice Albarino will develop more citrus fruit characteristics (lime, lemon, and grapefruit) with more acidity.