Grape Varities Flashcards
Aglianico
Visual: Dark Ruby, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors:
Fruit: Ripe/Roasted Black Fruit (Black Cherry, Blackberry, Black Plum), Fig, Dried Cherry
Possible Volatile Acidity
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Oak: Large Neutral Casks (modern producers may incorporate new French Oak)
Structure: Dry, Full Body, High Tannin, Elevated Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Barbera
Visual: Purple with Blue Tones, Moderate Minus to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Tangy/Sour Cherry, Raspberry, Blackberry, Dried Cherry
Floral: Purple Flowers, Lavender
Other: Dried Herbs, Tea Leaf, Slight Bergamot Oil, Cured Meat/Prosciutto
Oak: Large Neutral Casks (modern examples may incorporate new French barrique)
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Diminished Tannin, High Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Cabernet Franc
Visual: Dark Ruby Color, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration, Pink/Purple Rim Variation (in youth)
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Bright Red Fruit (Raspberry, Cranberry, Red Cherry, Cherry Pit), Tart Black Fruit (Black Cherry, Blackcurrant, Blackberry), Under-ripe Fruit Flavors
Possible Carbonic Maceration and/or Stem Inclusion
Floral: Violets, Lilacs, White and Red Flowers
Herbal/Green/Pyrazine: Blackcurrant Bud/Leaf, Green Bell/Serrano Pepper, Celery Seed, Grass, Sage, Tobacco
Other: Leather, Cedar, Cigar Box
Earth: High Minerality, Graphite/Pencil Lead, Gravel Dust
Oak: Neutral French Oak Barrels (some top cuvées will include new oak)
Structure: Bone Dry to Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Tannin, Elevated Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Classified Growth Medoc/Graves
Visual: Dark Ruby/Purple Color, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Black Fruit (Blackcurrant/Cassis, Blackberry, Black Cherry), Slight Red Fruit and Plum
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal/Green: Sage, Green Bell Pepper, Mint, Tobacco, Dried Savory Herbs
Spice (Savory): Green Peppercorn, Anise, Clove, Exotic Spices
Other: Leather, Pencil Shavings, Cedar, Iodine, Medicinal, Game, Cigar Box
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Graphite, Gravel, Iron, Damp Soil, Mushroom
Oak: Moderate Plus to High Use of New French Oak (Baking Spices, Clove, Smoke, Coffee, Vanilla, Roasted Nut, Cedar)
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Napa Cabernet
Visual: Dark Purple Color, High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruit (Blackcurrant/Cassis, Blackberry, Black Cherry), Lush Red Fruit (Sweet Cherry, Raspberry), Boysenberry/Blueberry
Possible Volatile Acidity
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal/Green (in cooler vintages): Sage, Mint, Green Bell Pepper, Tobacco, Eucalyptus
Spice (Sweet): Anise, Cocoa, Cinnamon, Clove, Allspice, Nutmeg
Other: Cedar, Pencil Shavings, Sweet Leather, Cigar Box
Earth: Low to Moderate Plus Minerality, Volcanic/Ashen, Gravel, Loamy
Oak: Moderate Plus to High Use of New French Oak (Allspice, Nutmeg, Clove, Smoke, Toast, Coffee, Vanilla, Roasted Nut, Cocoa, Cedar)
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Full Body, Elevated to High Tannin, Moderate Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
Visual: Dark Ruby to Purple Color, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors:
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruit (Cassis/Blackcurrant, Blackberry, Black Cherry), Ripe/Lush Red Fruit (Red Cherry, Red Plum), Prune
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal/Green: Intense Green Character, Eucalyptus, Mint, Green Bell Pepper, Sage
Spice (Sweet): Licorice/Anise, Cocoa, Cinnamon, Clove, Allspice, Nutmeg
Other: Cedar, Pencil Shavings, Leather, Cigar Box
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Terra Rossa/Red Soils, Loamy/Clay
Oak: Moderate to Moderate Plus Use of New French or American Oak (Baking Spices, Clove, Smoke, Coffee, Vanilla, Roasted Nut, Cedar)
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon
Visual: Dark Ruby/Purple Color, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruits (Blackcurrant/Cassis, Blackberry, Black Cherry), Ripe/Lush Red Fruits (Red Plum, Raspberry)
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal/Green: Green Bell Pepper/Capsicum, Green/Black Olive, Mint, Tobacco
Spice (Sweet): Anise, Cocoa, Cinnamon, Clove, Allspice, Nutmeg
Other: Cedar, Pencil Shavings, Leather, Cigar Box
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Damp Earth, Mushroom/Compost, Iron, Graphite
Oak: Moderate Use of New French Oak (Baking Spices, Clove, Smoke, Coffee, Vanilla, Roasted Nut, Cedar)
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Carmenere
Visual: Dark Ruby with Purple Tones, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruit (Cassis, Blackberry, Black Plum, Black Cherry), Stewed Tomato
Floral: Violets, Purple Flowers
Green/Herbal/Pyrazine: Strong Green Notes Contrasted with Ripe Fruit, Green Bell Pepper, Celery, Camphor
Spice: Black Pepper
Other: Bitter Chocolate
Oak: Low to Moderate Use of New French/American Oak
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Tannin, Moderate Acidity, Elevated Alcohol, Bitterness
Corvina
Visual: Ruby/Dark Ruby Color, Garnet Rim Variation, Moderate Plus Concentration, High Viscosity
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Syrupy Red Fruit (Red Cherry, Red Plum, Raspberry), Black Cherry, Blackberry, Prune, Raisin, Dried Cherry
Significant Volatile Acidity and Oxidation Likely
Possible Botrytis Aromas
Floral: Highly Floral, Roses, Dried Flowers
Spice: Licorice, Cinnamon
Other: Honey, Chocolate, Resin, Tar, Leather, Bitter Almond, Smoke, Tobacco Ash, Game
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality
Oak: Large Neutral Casks (Modern producers may incorporate new barrels)
Structure: Dry to Off-Dry (max. 12 g/l RS), Full Body, Elevated Tannin, Elevated Acidity, High Alcohol
Gamay
Visual: Bright Ruby with Purple Tones, Low to Moderate Plus (Low to Medium Minus in basic village wines, with higher concentration in some cru wines), Possible Residual Gas from Carbonic Maceration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus to High Intensity
Fruit: Tart Red Fruit (Strawberry, Red Cherry, Raspberry, Cranberry, Red Currant), Watermelon
Carbonic Maceration Notes: Pear Drop, Banana, Bubblegum, Cotton Candy, Lifted Red Fruit/Floral Aromatics
Floral: Violets, Lilacs, Peonies
Other: Slight Black Pepper, Dry Savory Herbs
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Wet Granite, Stony, Crushed Rock
Oak: None or Neutral Casks
Structure: Dry, Moderate Minus to Moderate Body, Diminished to Moderate Tannin, Elevated Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Chateauneuf-de-Pape (Grenache Dominant)
Visual: Ruby Color, Slight Orange Rim (even in youth), Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Cooked to Dried Red Fruits (Strawberry, Cherry, Raspberry), Roasted Red Plum, Blackberry, Raisin/Fig
Possible Volatile Acidity, Oxidation
Floral: Red Flowers, Dried Lavender
Herbal: Herbes de Provence, Garrigue/Wild Brush, Rosemary, Brewed Black Tea, Savory Herbs
Spice: Curing Spices, Black Pepper, Juniper, Clove, Licorice, Lavender
Other: Powdered Sugar, Dried Orange/Grapefruit Peel, Old Leather/Brettanomyces
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Stony/Gravelly, Baked Earth
Oak: Large Neutral Casks (foudres) or Concrete Vats, although some modern special cuvée styles may incorporate smaller barrels and new oak
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus to Full Body, Moderate to Elevated Tannin, Diminished to Moderate Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Australian Grenache
Visual: Ruby Color, Slight Orange Rim (even in youth), Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Cooked/Stewed Strawberry, Maraschino Cherry, Prune, Fig, Raisin, Plum Pie
Possible Volatile Acidity, Oxidation
Floral: Red Flowers
Herbal: Mint, Menthol, Eucalyptus, Black Tea Leaf, Dried Savory Herbs
Spice: Curing Spices, Black Pepper, Licorice
Other: Powdered Sugar, Possible Old Leather/Brettanomyces
Earth: Moderate Minerality, Crushed Vitamin
Oak: Neutral to Moderate Use of New French or American Oak
Structure: Dry (with a Ripe, Sappy Attack), Moderate Plus to Full Body, Moderate Tannin, Moderate Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Mendoza Malbec
Visual: Dark Ruby/Purple Color with Blue Tones, Moderate Plus to High Concentration, Electric Pink Rim
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus to High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruit (Black Raspberry, Black Cherry, Blackberry), Ripe/Lush Blue Fruit (Concord Grape Jam, Blueberry, Plum), Lush Red Fruit (Raspberry Liqueur), Fig, Raisin, Prune
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Violets, Damson Flowers (floral aromatics are especially expressive in higher altitude wines)
Herbal/Green: Malbec may have slight green notes
Earth: Moderate Minus to Moderate Minerality, Clay/Mud
Oak: Low to High Use of New French and/or American Oak, Vanilla, Baking Spices, Chocolate, Cinnamon
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Full Body, Elevated Tannin, Diminished to Moderate Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Right Bank Bordeaux
Visual: Ruby Color with Garnet Tones, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Blue Fruit (Plum, Blueberry), Red Fruit (Strawberry, Raspberry, Red Cherry), Black Fruit (Blackberry, Black Cherry), Fig/Fruitcake
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal: Mint, Bay Leaf, Fern, Tobacco
Spice: Licorice/Anise, Christmas Spice
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Clay, Mushroom/Truffle
Oak: Moderate Plus to High Use of New French Oak, Chocolate, Coffee, Cinnamon, Vanilla
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Moderate to Elevated Tannin, Moderate Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Napa Merlot
Visual: Ruby Color with Blue Tones, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Stewed Fruit Character, Ripe/Lush Blue Fruit (Plum, Blueberry), Ripe Black Fruit (Blackcurrant), Lush Red Fruit (Red Cherry, Raspberry), Fig, Prune
Floral: Purple Flowers, Violets
Herbal: Fern, Bay Leaf, Sage
Spice: Christmas Spice, Licorice/Anise
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality
Oak: Moderate to High Use of New French Oak or Mixed Origin Oak, Chocolate, Coffee, Mocha, Sweet Baking Spices, Vanilla
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus to Full Body, Moderate Tannin, Diminished to Moderate Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Mourvedre
Visual: Dark Ruby Color, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Black Fruit (Blackberry, Black Raspberry, Black Cherry), Blue Fruit (Blueberry, Plum, Prune), Red Fruit (Red Plum, Red Cherry)
Flowers: Purple Flowers
Herbal: Garrigue/Wild Herbs, Herbes de Provence, Black Tea, Tobacco
Spice: Bitter Chocolate, Black Pepper, Curing Spices
Other: Hung/Cured Meats, Animal/Feral, Game, Saddle Leather
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Forest Floor, Dusty
Oak: Large Neutral Cask, Coffee, Cinnamon
Structure: Dry, Full Body, Elevated to High Tannin, Elevated Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Barolo
Visual: Ruby/Garnet Color, Significant Garnet/Orange Rim Variation, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Tart Red Fruit (Sour Cherry, Red Plum), Blackberry, Mulberry, Dried Plum/Prune and Dried Cherry
Significant Volatile Acidity, Oxidation
Floral: Heady Floral Character, Roses, Violets
Herbal: Tea Leaf, Tobacco, Bitter Root, Tree Bark
Spice: Licorice, Anise, Resin, Slight Clove/Cinnamon Spice
Other: Tar, Leather
Earth: High Minerality, Truffle, Mushroom, Dust, Organic Earth
Oak: Neutral Large Casks (Slavonian Oak and Chestnut Botti are considered traditional casks for Barolo)
Structure: Dry, Medium to Full Body, High Tannin, Elevated to High Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Cote d’Or Pinot Noir
Visual: Light Ruby/Ruby Color, Moderate Minus to Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Tart to Just Ripe Red Fruit (Red Cherry, Raspberry, Cranberry, Wild Strawberry), Possible Black Cherry, Beet/Beetroot, Tomato
Possible Stem Inclusion
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Violets, Lilacs, Potpourri
Herbal/Vegetable: Tea Leaf, Dried Herbs, Fennel, Rhubarb, Sweet Squash
Spice: Red Licorice, Anise, Clove
Other: Game, Leather
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Flouride, Limestone, Mushroom/Forest Floor, Damp Leaves
Oak: Neutral to High Use of New French Oak, Toast, Vanilla Bean, Smoke, Baking Spices, Cinnamon, Roasted Nut, Caramel (typically, Côte de Nuits producers use higher percentages of new oak than their counterparts in the Côte de Beaune)
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Diminished to Elevated Tannin, Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
Visual: High Clarity, Bright Ruby Color, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Red Fruit (Strawberry Jam, Cherry, Raspberry), Ripe Black Cherry, Plum/Prune
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Potpourri
Herbal: Tea Leaf, Citrus Zest/Peel
Spice: Red Licorice, Clove, Cinnamon
Other: Cola, Cola Nut
Earth: Moderate Minerality
Oak: Moderate Plus to High Use of New French Oak (1/3 or more new barrels), Toast, Vanilla Bean, Smoke, Baking Spices, Clove, Cinnamon, Roasted Nut, Caramel
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Visual: Ruby Color, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Red Fruit (Strawberry, Cherry, Raspberry), Ripe Black Cherry, Blueberry
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Potpourri
Herbal: Tea Leaf, Citrus Zest/Peel, Tomato Leaf
Spice: Red Licorice, Oak Spices
Other: Cola, Cola Nut
Earth: Moderate Plus Minerality, Wet Leaves, Compost, Mushroom, Forest Floor
Oak: Moderate to High Use of New French Oak, Vanilla, Baking Spices, Coffee, Chocolate, Caramel
Structure: Dry (with Ripe Attack), Moderate Plus Body, Diminished to Moderate Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Pinotage
Visual: Dark Ruby/Purple, Moderate Plus Concentration, Stained Tears
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Roasted/Charred Black and Red Fruit, Blackberry, Black Cherry, Slight Fig
Significant Brettanomyces: Saddle Leather, Clove, Smoke, Band-Aid
Other: Sanguine/Blood, Fresh Paint, Rubber/Burnt Rubber, Barbecue
Oak: Moderate to High Use of New Oak
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Sangiovese (Chianti and Brunello)
Visual:
Chianti: Light Ruby with Slight Garnet Tones, Moderate Minus to Moderate Concentration (Concentration and Color may be darker if the wine is a blend)
Brunello: Dark Ruby, Garnet Rim Variation, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors:
Fruit: Tart Red Fruit (Sour Cherry, Raspberry, Cranberry, Red Currant), Red Apple, Black Cherry, Mulberry, Tomato
Floral: Dried Flowers, Potpourri
Herbal/Green: Fennel, Roasted Savory Herbs, Thyme, Rosemary, Marjoram, Camphor, Bitter Root
Spice: Clove, Smoke (Brettanomyces indicators), Coffee/Oak Spices
Other: Sanguine/Blood, Balsamic, Animal, Leather, Tar
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Clay, Crushed Rock, Baked Earth
Oak:
Chianti: None or Large Neutral Cask with Possible Mixed Use of French Oak Barriques (Chianti DOCG may not see any oak, whereas Chianti Classico and Riserva DOCG wines age in oak barrels)
Brunello: Large Neutral Cask with Possible Mixed Use of French Oak Barriques
Note: Classic examples of both do not see any significant new wood.
Structure:
Chianti: Bone Dry to Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Elevated to High Tannin, Elevated to High Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Brunello: Bone Dry to Dry, Full Body, Elevated to High Tannin, Elevated to High Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Northern Rhone Syrah
Visual: Ruby/Purple Color, Moderate Plus to High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Tart/Ripe Black Fruit (Blackberry, Black Cherry, Black Plum), Blue Fruit (Blueberry, Boysenberry), Red Fruit (Raspberry)
Possible Carbonic Maceration and/or Stem Inclusion
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Lavender, Violets
Herbal/Green: Black/Green Olive, Green Peppercorn, Herbes de Provence, Rosemary
Spice: White/Black Pepper, Curing Spices, Juniper
Other: Tar, Hung/Cured Meat, Smoke, Bacon Fat, Band-Aid (Brettanomyces)
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Granite, Crushed Rock
Oak: Neutral Barrel/Cask or Low to Moderate Use of New French Oak
Structure: Bone Dry to Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Moderate to Elevated Tannin, Elevated to High Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
South Australia Shiraz
Visual: Opaque, Dark Purple Color, High Concentration, Deeply Stained Tears
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Black Fruit (Blackberry, Cassis), Lush Blue Fruit (Blueberry, Plum), Dried Fruit (Fig, Raisin, Date), Raspberry Liqueur, Mulberry
Floral: Purple and Red Flowers, Lavender (less prominent than in Northern Rhône examples)
Herbal/Green: Eucalyptus, MInt/Menthol, Herbes de Provence, Rosemary
Spice: Black Pepper, Dried Savory Spices, Licorice, Christmas Spices/Fruitcake
Other: Bitter Chocolate, Smoke, Grilled Meat
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality
Oak: Low to High Use of New American or French Oak, Vanilla, Coconut, Dill, Chocolate, Mocha, Baking Spices, Cumin, Curry/Fenugreek, Maple
Tempranillo
Visual: Ruby, Moderate Minus to Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Tart/Sweet Red Fruit (Red Cherry, Strawberry, Red Currant), Sour Asian Plum, Dried Plum
Significant Oxidation and Brettanomyces for Gran Reserva Styles
Floral: Red and Dried Flowers
Herbal: Tobacco, Dill
Other: Sweet and Sour Sauce, Iodine, Leather, Spice
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Baked Earth, Clay, Compost
Oak: Low to Moderate Use of New American or Mixed American/French Barrels (Long Aging in Oak for Reserva and Gran Reserva Styles), Vanilla, Coconut, Dill, Cumin, Curry, Fenugreek, Sandalwood
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Zinfandel
Visual: Ruby/Dark Ruby, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration (color and concentration are highly affected by blending other varieties)
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus to High Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Jammy/Brambly Berry Fruit (Raspberry, Black Cherry, Cherry Compote, Blackberry, Cassis, Blueberry), Cranberry Jam, Raisin, Fig, Peach Yogurt, Apricot
Non-Fruit: Black Pepper, Briar, Slight Potting Soil/Turned Earth
Oak: Neutral to Moderate Use of New American Oak, French Oak, or Mixed Barrels: Vanilla, Sawdust, Coconut, Chocolate, Mocha, Coffee, Caramel, Dillweed, Cinnamon
Structure: Dry (often with perceptible RS), Full Body, Moderate Tannin, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol
Cabernet Franc Synonyms
France: Bouchet, Gros Bouchet, and Grosse-Vidure (St. Émilion and Pomerol); Carmenet (Médoc), Breton (Loire Valley), Véron, Bouchy, Noir-Dur, Méssange Rouge, Trouchet Noir
Italy: Bordo (Veneto), Cabernet Frank
Spain: Archéria (Basque Country)
Cabernet Sauvignon Synonyms
Petit-Cabernet, Vidure, Petite Vidure (Graves); Petit Bouchet (Right Bank); Bouchet (Gironde); Sauvignon Rouge (Central France)
Grenache Synonyms
Spain: Garnacha Tinta, Garnatxa, Lladoner, Uva di Spagna, Tintilo de Rota, Tinto Menudo, Roussillon Tinto, Tinto Aragonés
Note: Garnacha Tintorera is a synonym for Alicante Bouschet, not Grenache
France: Bois Jaune, Carignane Rousse, Sans Pareil, Rivesaltes, Rouvaillard, Aragonais, Ranconnat,
Italy: Cannonau (Sardinia), Tocai Rosso, Bordò, and Tai Rosso (Veneto), Vernaccia Nera (Marches)
Note: The Sardinian grapes Garnaccia and Granazza, previously thought to be synonymous with Grenache, are genetically distinct
Malbec Synonyms
France: Côt (Cahors and Loire Valley), Auxerrois (Cahors), Pressac (Bordeaux Right Bank), Vesparo, Pied Rouge, Jacobain, Grifforin, Malbeck (the latter is also used in Argentina)
Mourvedre Synonyms
Spain: Monastrell
France: Balzac, Esparte
US/Australia: Mataro
Nebbiolo Synonyms
Italy: Spanna (Piemonte), Chiavennasca (Valtellina), Picotendro / Picoutener (Valle d’Aosta, Carema), Prunet
Pinot Noir Synonyms
France: Noirien (Burgundy), Franc Pineau, Morillon (Morey-St-Denis), Plant Doré and Vert Doré (Champagne), Salvagnin and Savagnin Noir (Jura), Auvernat (Orléans), Bourguignon (Auvergne)
Italy: Pinot Nero, Pignola
Germany: Spätburgunder, Blauburgunder, Blauer Klevner
Austria: Klevner
Switzerland: Savagnin Noir, Servagnin (Vaud)
Eastern Europe: : Nagyburgundi (Hungary), Burgundac Crni (Serbia and Croatia), Crn Burgundec (Macedonia) Rouci (Czech Republic), Pino Fran (Moldova), Pinot Cernii (Russia)
Sangiovese Synonyms
Italy: Morellino (Grosseto), Brunello (Montalcino), Prugnolo Gentile (Montepulciano), Sangioveto (Chianti), Sanvicetro (Chianti), Calabrese (Chianti), Montepulciano (Southern Italy), Puttanella (Calabria), Tuccanese (Puglia)
Corsica: Nielluccio (although some suggest this is an indigenous grape to Corsica, it is likely a biotype of Sangiovese)
Syrah/Shiraz Synonyms
Australia: Shiraz, Hermitage (Once common, “Hermitage” is no longer legally allowed as a synonym in Australia due to agreement with the EU.)
France: Schiras, Sirac, Sirah, Petite Syrah, Hignin Noir, Candive, Entournerein, Antourenein Noir, Sérine, Marsanne Noir
Argentina: Balsamina
Tempranillo
Spain: Cencibel (Valdepeñas), Tinto Fino (Ribera del Duero), Tinto del País (Ribera del Duero), Tinta de Toro (Toro), Ull de Llebre/Ojo de Liebre (Catalonia), Jacivera (Manchuela), Tinto Madrid, Grenache de Logrono (Rioja)
Portugal: Aragonez (Alentejo), Tinto Roriz (Douro Valley), Tinto de Santiago (Península de Setúbal)
Argentina: Tempranilla
Zinfandel
Croatia: Tribidrag, Crljenak Kaštelanski
Italy (Puglia): Primitivo
Montenegro, Macedonia, Serbia: Kratosija
Rias Baixas Albarino
Visual: Pale Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Minus Concentration, Slight Residual Gas (in youth)
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Citrus (Orange, Meyer Lemon, Ruby Red Grapefruit), Stone Fruit (White Peach, Peach Pit, Apricot, Nectarine), Green Apple, Melon
Floral: White and Yellow Flowers, Citrus and Apple Blossoms
Other: Bubblegum, Agave, Slight Beer Yeast, Leesy, Saline, Possible ML fermentation
Earth: Moderate Plus Minerality
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate Body, Elevated Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Santorini Assyrtiko
Visual: Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors:
Fruit: Citrus (Lemon, Lime), Yellow Apple, Stone Fruit in warmer vintages
Floral: Citrus Blossoms, Gardenia, Dried Flowers
Oxidative: Slight Hazelnut
Other: Lees, Petrol (particularly after 3-4 years of bottle age)
Earth: Sulfur, Ash, Flint, Gunsmoke, Lava Rock
Oak: None (although most producers do have a barrique-aged bottling in their range)
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Low Tannin (Assyrtiko is an extremely phenolic grape), High Acidity (3.0 pH is average), Elevated to High Alcohol
Chablis Chardonnay
Visual: Pale Straw/Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Intensity
Fruit: Tart to Just Ripe Tree Fruit (Green Apple, Yellow Apple, Green Pear), Citrus (Lemon)
Sulphuric Note (especially in youth): Flint, Burnt Match, Slight Cabbage
Oxidative Notes (if neutral barrels are employed): Hazelnut, Almond, Cheese Rind
Floral: Faint White Flowers, Apple Blossoms, Hawthorne, Acacia
Earth: High Minerality, Stony, Chalk, Saline/Seaspray, Oyster Shell, Button Mushroom
Oak: None or Neutral Barrel
Structure: Bone Dry to Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Elevated to High Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Cote de Beaune Chardonnay
Visual: Straw to Yellow/Pale Gold, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate to Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Tree Fruits (Green/Yellow Apple, Pear, Quince), Citrus (Lemon), Melon, Stone Fruit (White Peach, Yellow Cherry)
Sulphuric Note (especially in youth): Flint, Burnt Match, Slight Cabbage
Oxidative Notes: Almond, Hazelnut, Cheese Rind
Malolactic Notes: Slight Butter, Crème Fraiche/Sour Cream
Floral: White Flowers, Acacia, Hawthorne, Honeysuckle, Apple Blossoms
Other: Slight Spice, Slight Savory Herbs
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Limestone, Button Mushroom
Oak: Low to High Use of New French Oak, Toffee, Salted Caramel, Butterscotch, Sweet Baking Spices, Cinnamon, Toast, Smoke
Bottle Age Aromas: Truffle, Honey, Nut
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Full Body, Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Oak Driven California Chardonnay
Visual: Yellow/Pale Gold, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate to Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Tree Fruits (Yellow Apple, Baked Pear), Ripe Citrus (Meyer Lemon), Ripe Apricot, Tropical Fruits (Ripe Pineapple, Mango), Melon
Floral: White Flowers, Apple Blossoms, Honeysuckle
Oxidative Notes: Hazelnut, Almond
Malolactic Notes: Butter, Yogurt, Crème Fraiche/Sour Cream
Other: Sweet/Canned Corn
Earth: Low Minerality, Slight Limestone
Oak: Moderate to High Use of New French Oak, Toffee, Salted Caramel, Butterscotch, Sweet Baking Spices, Vanilla, Pie Crust, Toast
Structure: Dry (may have slight residual sugar), Moderate Plus to Full Body, Moderate Acidity, Elevated Alcohol
Vouvray Sec/Demi Sec Chenin Blanc
Visual: Pale Straw/Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate to Moderate Plus Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Tree Fruit (Green/Golden/Oxidized Apple, Quince, Yellow Pear), Citrus (Tangerine, Orange, Lemon), Demi-Sec examples may also reveal Melon and Tropical Fruit Notes
Sulphuric Note (in youth)
Oxidative Notes: Slight Bruised Apple, Bitter Nut, Almond, Cheese Rind/Soft Cheese
Floral: Orange Blossoms, Jasmine, Honeysuckle, Fragrant White Flowers
Herbal: Chamomile/Herbal Tea, Medicinal Notes, Dandelion Greens, Wasabi, Savory Herbs, Tree Bark
Botrytis (possible): Honey (particularly with Bottle Age), Ginger, Marmalade
Other: Wet Wool, Lanolin
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Damp Straw, Limestone/Tuffeau, Wet Stones, White Mushroom
Oak: None or Neutral Cask
Structure: Dry to Off-Dry (dry examples typically have slight RS), Moderate Body, High Acidity, Diminished to Moderate Alcohol
Savennieres Chenin Blanc
Visual: Pale Yellow/Gold, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors:
Fruit: Tree Fruit (Green/Golden/Oxidized Apple, Quince, Yellow Pear), Citrus (Tangerine, Bergamot, Lemon), Dried Apricot
Oxidative Notes: Bruised/Rotten Apple, Cider, Bitter Nut, Almond/Marzipan, Pistachio, Cheese Rind/Soft Cheese (overall the character of classic Savennières tends to be more oxidative than Vouvray)
Floral: Honeysuckle, Jasmine, White Flowers
Herbal: Chamomile/Herbal Tea, Medicinal Notes, Dandelion Greens, Wasabi, Savory Herbs, Tree Bark
Botrytis (possible): Honey (particularly with bottle age), Saffron, Ginger, Marmalade
Other: Wet Wool, Lanolin
Earth: Moderate Plus to High Minerality, Damp Straw, Schist, Wet Stones, White Mushroom
Oak: None or Neutral Cask
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus to Full Body, High Levels of Extract, High Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Alsatian Gewurztraminer
Visual: Yellow/Gold, Moderate Plus to High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High (Heady) Intensity
Fruit: Tropical Fruit (Lychee, Pineapple, Tropical Fruit Punch), Ripe Stone Fruit (Peach Jam, Dried Apricot), Citrus (Orange Marmalade, Grapefruit Pith)
Floral: Roses, Floral Perfume
Spice: Cinnamon, Clove, Gingerbread, Musk, Potpourri, Exotic Spices
Other: Honey, Bergamot Oil, Face Lotion/Perfumed Hand Soap
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality
Oak: None or Neutral Cask
Structure: Dry to Off Dry, Moderate Plus to Full-Body, Diminished to Moderate Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
Wachau Smaragd and Kremstal/Kamptal Reserve Grüner Veltliner
Visual: Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Citrus (Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, Orange), Ripe Stone Fruit (Peach, Apricot, Yellow Cherry, White Plum), Red/Yellow Apple, Slight Dried and/or Tropical Fruit Character
Floral: White Flowers
Spice: White Pepper, Wasabi, Radish, Lentils
Green/Herbal: Slight Chive, Tarragon, Sage
Slight Oxidation: Blanched Almond, Nut
Botrytis: Slight Ginger, Honey, Saffron
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Stony, Granitic
Other: Leesy, Smoke
Oak: None or Neutral Large Cask
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Marsanne
Visual: Yellow Color with Hints of Gold and Green, Moderate Plus to High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Stone Fruit (Apricot, Apricot Kernel, White Peach, White Plum), RIpe Tree Fruit (Quince, Pear, Baked Apple), Melon, Orange Marmalade, Citron/Lemon Oil
Oxidation Notes: Almond/Marzipan, Hazelnut
Malolactic Notes: Butter, Cream
Floral: White Flowers, Honeysuckle, Acacia
Herbal/Green: Green Olive, Thyme, Pine
Spice: Cinnamon, Musk
Other: Beeswax, Honey, Parsnip, Root Beer
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Granitic/Stony
Oak: Neutral Casks or Low to Moderate Use of New French Oak, Vanilla Pod, Toast, Smoke, Baking Spices
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus to Full Body, Diminished Acidity, Elevated Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
Sur Lie Muscadet Melon de Bourgogne
Visual: Watery to Pale Straw with Hints of Green, Low to Moderate Minus Concentration, Slight Residual Gas (in youth)
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Minus to Moderate Intensity
Fruit: Tart Citrus (Lemon, Lime), Tart Tree Fruit (Green Apple, Green Pear), Under-ripe Stone Fruit (White Peach, Nectarine)
Floral: Faint White Flowers
Herbal/Root: Dandelion Greens, Nettles, Savory Herbs, Peppery Greens, Turnip/Root Vegetable
Sur Lie: Leesy, Yeast, Sourdough, Sour Beer, Slight Cream
Earth: High Minerality, Saline/Brine, Sea Salt, Wet Stones
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate Minus to Moderate Body, High Acidity, Moderate Alcohol
Alsace Muscat
Visual: Straw/Yellow, Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High (Heady) Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Citrus (Orange, Tangerine), Ripe Tree Fruit (Yellow Pear), Ripe Stone Fruit (Yellow Peach, Apricot), Tropical Fruit (Pineapple, Mango), Melon, Grape
Floral: White, Yellow and Red Flowers, Honeysuckle, Rose, Orange Blossoms, Lilacs, Elderflower
Herbal/Green: Slight Vegetative Notes
Spice: Musk, Potpourri, Cinnamon, Licorice
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Stony, Button Mushroom, Damp Cellar
Oak: None or Large Neutral Cask
Structure: Dry, Moderate Body, Moderate Acidity, Moderate Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise
Visual: Straw, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High (Heady) Intensity
Fruit: Candied Citrus (Orange, Tangerine), Ripe Stone Fruit (Yellow Peach, Apricot), Tropical Fruit (Pineapple, Mango), Melon Liqueur, Grape
Floral: White, Yellow and Red Flowers, Honeysuckle, Rose, Orange Blossoms, Lilacs, Elderflower
Other: Honey
Oak: None
Structure: Medium Sweet to Sweet (at least 110 g/l residual sugar), Full Body, Moderate Acidity, High Alcohol (fortified)
Alsatian Pinot Gris
Visual: Yellow/Pale Gold (possibly with slight copper and pink tones), Moderate to Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate to Moderate Plus Intensity
Fruit: Stone Fruit (Apricot, Yellow Peach), Candied Citrus (Meyer Lemon, Orange), Ripe Tree Fruit (Baked Apple, Quince), Tropical Notes (Pineapple), Banana/Banana Peel
Floral: Faint White Flowers, Apple Blossoms, Honeysuckle
Spice: Exotic Spices, Musk, Cinnamon
Botrytis: Honey, Ginger
Other: Beeswax, Damp Cellar, Nutty, Bitter Almond
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Mushroom/Forest Floor
Oak: Large Neutral Oak Casks
Structure: Dry to Medium Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
Italian Pinot Grigio
Visual: Pale Straw with Hints of Green (possibly with slight copper and pink tones), Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Intensity
Fruit: Citrus (Lemon), Tree Fruit (Red and Yellow Apple), Creamy Stone Fruit (White Peach, Nectarine), Melon
Floral: White and Yellow Flowers
Herbal: Watercress/Arugula
Other: Peanut Shell, Lager Yeast/Stale Beer
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Stone/Chalk, Ashen Notes, Saline
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate Body, Elevated Acidity, Moderate Alcohol, Slight Phenolic Bitterness
Mosel Kabinett Riesling
Visual: Brilliant, Watery White with Hints of Green, Low Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Tart Tree Fruits (Green Apple, Bosc Pear, Quince), Citrus/Citrus Peel (Lemon, Lime, Grapefruit), Stone Fruit (White Peach, White Plum, Nectarine), Blackcurrant
Sulphuric Note (in youth)
Floral: White Flowers, Jasmine, Fruit Tree Blossoms
Other: Slight Smoke, Candlewax, Panna Cotta/Meringue, Slight Petrol
Earth: High Minerality, Slate, Crushed Rock
Oak: None or Large Neutral Cask
Bottle Age Aromas: Honey, Petrol, Paraffin
Structure: Off-Dry to Medium Dry, Light Body, High Acidity, Low Alcohol
Rheingau Spatlese Riesling
Visual: Star-Bright, Straw with Hints of Pale Gold and Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Tree Fruits (Yellow Apple, Pear, Quince), Fresh Citrus/Citrus Peel (Grapefruit, Orange, Meyer Lemon), Stone Fruits (Nectarine, White Peach, Apricot, Cherry), Melon
Sulphuric Note (in youth)
Floral: White Flowers, Wildflowers, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Fruit Tree Blossoms
Botrytis: Ginger, Honey, Saffron
Slight Herbal/Spice: Lemongrass
Other: Slight Smoke, Candlewax, Panna Cotta/Meringue, Slight Petrol
Earth: High Minerality, Granite, Slate, Crushed Rock
Oak: None or Large Neutral Cask
Bottle Age Aromas: Honey, Petrol, Paraffin, Herbs (Marjoram, Spearmint)
Structure: Medium Dry to Medium Sweet, Moderate Minus Body, High Acidity, Low Alcohol
Dry Alsace Riesling
Visual: Yellow/Gold with Hints of Green, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe and Cooked Tree Fruits (Yellow Apple, Baked Pear, Quince), Citrus (Lemon, Citronella, Grapefruit), Stone Fruit (Yellow Peach, Stewed Apricot), Tropical Fruit (Pineapple), Banana/Banana Peel
Sulphuric Note (in youth)
Floral: White Flowers, Honeysuckle, Jasmine
Botrytis: Ginger, Honey, Saffron
Spice: Cardamom, Anise, Fennel
Other: Smoke, Candlewax, Slight Petrol
Earth: High Minerality, White Mushroom
Oak: None or Large Neutral Cask
Bottle Age Aromas: Honey, Petrol, Paraffin, Marzipan, Browned Toast
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, High Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Clare Valley/Eden Valley Riesling
Visual: Pale Straw with Hints of Gold and Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Citrus (Lime, Lime Candy, Lemon), Stone Fruit (White Peach, White Nectarine), Tart Tree Fruit (Green Apple), Slight Tropical Fruit (Passion Fruit, Guava)
Sulphuric Note (in youth)
Floral: White Flowers, Purple Flowers, Linden/Lime Blossoms, Roses
Other: Slight Spice, Kerosene/Petrol, Margarita Salt, “Fresh Tennis Ball”
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Slate, Steely
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, High Acidity, Moderate Alcoho
Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc
Visual: Pale Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate to Moderate Plus Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Tart Citrus (Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime), Tart Tree Fruit (Green Apple, Green Pear), Gooseberry, Under-ripe Stone Fruit (White Peach), Slight Tropical Fruit (Kiwi, Passion Fruit)
Floral: Faint White Flowers, Citrus Blossoms
Herbal/Green/Pyrazine: Cut Grass, Green Bell Pepper, Blackcurrant Bud, Box Tree, Nettles, Tarragon
Earth: High Minerality, Wet Stones, Chalk, Crushed Rocks
Oak: None or Neutral Oak Casks
Structure: Dry, Moderate Body, High Acidity, Moderate to Moderate Plus Alcohol
Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Visual: Pale Straw with Hints of Green, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Citrus (Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime), Melon, Gooseberry, Tropical Fruit (Passion Fruit, Guava, Pineapple)
Floral: Faint White Flowers, Citrus Blossoms
Herbal/Green/Pyrazine: Cut Grass, Asparagus, Canned Pea, Green Bell Pepper, Jalapeño, Blackcurrant Bud, Rhubarb
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality, Wet Sand, Chalk
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate Body, High Acidity, Moderate to Moderate Plus Alcohol
Napa Sauvignon Blanc
Visual: Straw with Hints of Green and Gold, Moderate Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Plus Intensity, Less Pronounced Varietal Character
Fruit: Ripe Citrus Fruit (Ruby Red Grapefruit, Lemon, Mandarin Orange, Lime), Tropical Fruit (Passion Fruit, Guava, Kiwi), Ripe Tree and Stone Fruit (Red Apple, White Peach, Nectarine), Melon
Floral: White Flowers, Citrus Blossoms
Herbal/Green/Pyrazine: Cut Grass, Celery, Tarragon, Lemongrass
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality
Oak: None or Low to Moderate Use of New French Oak (Napa examples with new barrique fermentation and aging may take on aromas and flavors similar to Graves Bordeaux Blanc)
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Plus to High Acidity, Moderate Plus to High Alcohol
Graves Bordeaux Blanc Sauvignon Blanc
Visual: Yellow/Pale Gold Color with Hints of Green, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: Moderate Intensity of Aromas
Fruit: Citrus (Grapefruit, Lemon), Tropical Fruit (Pineapple, Passion Fruit), Tree Fruit (Green Fig, Green/Yellow Apple), Melon, Stone Fruit (Nectarine, Peach, Apricot)
Floral: Honeysuckle, Faint White Flowers
Herbal/Green/Pyrazine: Cut Grass, Celery Seed/Celery
Earth: Gravel, Wet Rocks
Other: Beeswax, Lanolin, Cream Soda, Sunflower Seed
Oak: Moderate to High (50%) Use of New French Oak, Vanilla, Toast
Structure: Dry, Moderate to Moderate Plus Body, Moderate Plus to High Acidity, Moderate to Moderate Plus Alcohol
Sauternes/Barsac Semillon
Visual: Gold, High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Stewed/Cooked Tree Fruit (Apple, Quince), Cooked Peach, Dried Apricot, Fig/Fruitcake, Sweet Citrus (Orange, Tangerine, Lemon Marmalade), Ripe Melon, Tropical Fruit (Pineapple)
Floral: Honeysuckle, Orange Blossom
Spice: Cinnamon, Clove, Mace, Nutmeg, Vanilla Pod
Herbal: Sweet Hay, Dried Grass, Savory Herbs
Botrytis: Honey, Gingerbread/Ginger, Saffron, Candied Pineapple/Dried Apricot
Oxidation: Blanched Nuts, Hazelnut, Almond
Earth: Moderate to High Minerality, Mushroom/Truffle Notes
Oak: Moderate to High Use of New French Oak, Toast, Smoke, Caramel/Crème Brûlée, Vanilla, Coconut, Baking Spices
Structure: Sweet (approx. 85-150 g/l residual sugar), Full Body, Elevated Acidity, Moderate to Elevated Alcohol
Salta Torrontes
Visual: Yellow with Hints of Green, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Synthetic Grape, Tropical Fruit (Pineapple, Guava, Papaya), Ripe Citrus (Orange, Meyer Lemon), Ripe Stone Fruit (Peach), Melon
Floral: Highly Floral/Perfumed, Orange Blossoms, Roses, Jasmine, Geraniums
Other: Hand Lotion/Soapy, Potpourri, Slight Musk Spice
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality
Oak: None
Structure: Dry, Moderate Plus Body, Moderate to Elevated Acidity, Elevated Alcohol, Possible Phenolic Bitterness
Condrieu Viognier
Visual: Yellow/Pale Gold Color, Moderate Plus Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe/Lush Stone Fruit (Apricot, Peach, Peach Pit), Ripe Citrus (Mandarin Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit), Tropical Fruit (Mango, Persimmon), Fruit Cocktail
Floral: Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Orange Blossoms, Rose
Spice: Cinnamon, Musk, Potpourri, Candied Citrus Peel, Anise, Gingerbread
Malolactic Fermentation (not always present): Crème Fraiche, Yogurt, Butter
Earth: Moderate to Moderate Plus Minerality, Stone/Granite
Oak: None, Neutral Oak, or Low to Moderate (approx. 30%) Use of New French Oak
Structure: Dry (may have slight residual sugar), Moderate Plus to Full Body, Diminished to Moderate Acidity, Elevated Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
California Viognier
Visual: Yellow/Pale Gold Color, Moderate Plus to High Concentration
Aromas/Flavors: High Intensity
Fruit: Ripe Stone Fruit (Apricot, Peach), Ripe Citrus (Mandarin Orange, Ruby Red Grapefruit, Tangerine), Ripe Tropical Fruit (Pineapple, Mango), Fruit Cocktail
Floral: Honeysuckle, Rose
Spice: Potpourri, Sweet Spices, Vanilla, Cardamom, Gingerbread
Malolactic Fermentation (not always present): Crème Fraiche, Yogurt, Butter
Earth: Low to Moderate Minerality
Other: Oily, Sweetened Cereal Grains (“Fruit Loops”)
Oak: None, Neutral Oak, or Low to Moderate (approx. 30%) Use of New French Oak
Structure: Dry to Off Dry, Full Body, Diminished Acidity, Elevated to High Alcohol, Phenolic Bitterness
Albarino Synonyms
Spain: Galego, Azal Blanco, Albelleiro, Alvarin Blanco
Portugal: Alvarinho, Galeguinho
Chardonnay Synonyms
France: Beaunois (Chablis), Melon d’Arbois (northern Jura), Gamay Blanc (southern Jura), Epinette (Champagne), Pinot Blanc à Cramant (Champagne), Arnaison (Touraine), Morillon (Yonne), Plat de Tonnerre (Yonne), Rousseau (Saône), Petite Sainte-Marie (Savoie), Petit Chatey (Jura)
Austria: Feinburgunder, Morillon
Italy: Gelber Weißerburgunder (Alto Adige)
Germany: Weißer Clevner
Chenin Blanc Synonyms
South Africa: Steen
France: Pineau de la Loire, Pineau d’Anjou, Pineau (Loire Valley)
South America: Pinot Bianco
Gewurztraminer Synonyms
Alsace: Traminer, Rotclevner, Rousselet, Frenscher, Edeltraube
Other France: Traminer Musqué, Traminer Aromatique, Traminer Parfumé, Gentil-Duret Rouge, Gris Rouge
Germany: Dreimanner, Christkindltraube, Rotedel, Rotfranke, Frankisch, Kleinweiner
Italy: Traminer Aromatico, Flaischwiner
Austria: Roter Nurnberger, Ranfoliza
Hungary: Fuszeres, Tramini
Romania: Traminer Roz
Macedonia: Traminec
Gruner Veltliner
Austria: Weißgipfler, Manhardsrebe, Grünmuskateller Czech Republic: Veltlinské Zelené Slovakia: Zelini Veltlinec Hungary: Zöldveltelini Other: Gru-Ve
Marsanne Synonyms
France: Grosse Roussette (Savoie)
Switzerland: Ermitage
Spain: Marsana
Melon de Bourgogne Synonyms
France: Muscadet, Gros Auxerrois, Gamay Blanc à Feuilles Rondes
Note: A large amount of “Pinot Blanc” planted in California in the 1970s was determined through DNA testing to be Melon de Bourgogne
Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains
Italy: Moscato Bianco, Moscato Canelli (Asti)
France: Muscat d’Alsace, Muscat Lunel, Muscat de Frontignan
Hungary: Sárgamuskotály (Tokaj)
Spain: Moscatel de Grano Menudo
Germany: Muskateller
South Africa: Muskadel, Muscat de Frontignan
Australia: Muscat de Frontignan
Greece: Moschato Aspro, Muscat of Samos
Macedonia: Temjanika
Russia: Tamyanka
California: White Muscat
Note: Muscat of Alexandria (Hanepoot), Muscat of Hamburg, and Muscat Ottonel are distinct varieties.
Color Mutations of Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains: Yellow Muscat (Gelber Muskateller), Brown Muscat (Frontignac), Red Muscat (Roter Muskateller)
Pinot Gris/Grigio
Italy: Pinot Grigio
France: Pinot Beurot (Burgundy), Malvoisie (Savoie, Loire), Tokay d’Alsace (banned synonym in Alsace), Gris Cordelier, Fauvet, Auvernat Gris, Petit Gris, Fromentot
Germany: Rülander, Grauburgunder, Grauklevner
Hungary: Szürkebarat, Grauer Mönch
Switzerland: Malvoisie de Valais
Slovenia/Croatia: Rulandac Sivi
Riesling Synonyms
Germany: Weißer Riesling (Germany and Austria), Johannisberger (Germany and Switzerland), Moselriesling, Rheinriesling, Rössling, Rieslinger, Pfefferl, Niederländer, Klingelberger, Gräfenberger, Kastellberger, Karbacher Riesling, Kleinriesling, Kleingriesler, Weißer Kleiner Riesling, Gewürztraube
California: Johannisberg Riesling
USA: White Riesling
Australia: Rhine Riesling
Italy: Riesling Renano
Croatia: Rajinski Rizling
Slovenia: Renski Rizling
Bulgaria: Rizling
Romania: Reynai
France: Petracine (Moselle), Gentil Aromatique
Note: Gray Riesling, Emerald Riesling, Cape Riesling, Hunter Riesling, Italian Riesling (Welschriesling) are distinct grapes, not synonyms for the noble Riesling
Roussanne Synonyms
France: Bergeron (Savoie), Barbin, Rebelot, Greffou, Picotin Blanc, Roussanne de Tain, Fromenteau
Sauvignon Blanc Synonyms
France: Blanc Fumé (Pouilly-Fumé), Punechon (France), Surin (France), Sauvignon Jaune (France), Gentin à Romorantin (France) California: Fumé Blanc, Savagnin Musqué Italy: Sauvignon Austria: Muskat-Silvaner Germany: Feigentraube
Semillon Synonyms
France: Sémillon Muscat, Sémillon Roux, Chevrier, Malaga, Colombier, Blanc Doux
Australia: Hunter Riesling (Hunter Valley)
South Africa: Wyndruif, Green Grape, Groendruif
Romania: St. Emilion
Torrontes Synonyms
Torrontel, Torrontel Riojano, Malvasia
Viognier Synonyms
Burgundy: Chaudenet Gras (Côte Chalonnaise), Giboudot Blanc (Rully), Griset Blanc (Beaune), Plant Gris (Meursault), Troyen Blanc (Yonne)
Other France: Bergeron, Barbin, Rebelot, Greffou, Picotin Blanc, Vionnier, Petiti Vionnier, Viogné, Galopine
Croatia: Vugava bijela (Dalmatia)
Aglianco Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-Skinned, Early-Budding, Late-Ripening, Resistance to Powdery Mildew, Susceptible to Downy Mildew and Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: volcanic soils
Barbera Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Mid-Ripening, Susceptible to Downy Mildew and Pierce’s Disease, High Vigor
Preferred Soil Type: Calcareous soils and sandy/clay loams
Cabernet Franc Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Cabernet Franc is thinner-Skinned than Cabernet Sauvignon, and buds and ripens at least a week earlier. Susceptible to Downy and Powdery Mildew, Resistance to Cold
Preferred Soil Type: Limestone, Sand
Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late-Budding, Late-Ripening, Thick-Skinned, Small Berry Size, Resistance to Disease
Preferred Soil Type: well-drained gravel soils
Carmenere Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Carmenère buds earlier than either Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc, but ripens later. Thick-skinned, Susceptible to Coulure
Preferred Soil Type: Clay
Corvina Characteristics
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-skinned, Small Berries, Resistance to Rot and Winter Cold, High Vigor
Gamay Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Early-Budding, Early-Ripening, Susceptible to Botrytis/Grey Rot and Powdery Mildew
Preferred Soil Type: schist and granite
Grenache Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Late-Ripening, High-Yielding, Susceptible to Fungal Disease and Coulure, Resistance to Drought
Preferred Soil Type: Hot, dry, stony soils (such as schist or granite)
Malbec Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-Skinned, Early-Budding, Early-Ripening (for a Bordeaux variety), Medium Berry Size, Loose Clusters, Susceptible to Frost and Many Diseases, Resistance to Oidium
Preferred Soil Type: various
Merlot Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thinner-skinned than Cabernet Sauvignon (Merlot flowers and ripens up to two weeks earlier than Cabernet), Resistance to Powdery Mildew, Susceptible to Downy Mildew and Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: cool, moisture-retaining soils, such as clay
Mouvedre Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-Skinned, Late-Budding, Late-Ripening, Susceptible to Drought, Resistant to Botrytis/Bunch Rot
Preferred Soil Type: cool clay or calcareous soils
Nebbiolo Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: High Vigor, Thin-Skinned, Early-Budding, Late Ripening (at least 2 weeks after Barbera and 4 weeks after Dolcetto), Susceptible to Oidium, Resistance to Downy Mildew and Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: calcareous marl and sandy soils
Associated Classic Soil Types:
Tortonian (calcareous marl)
Helvetian (sandstone)
Pinot Noir Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Early-Budding, Early-Ripening, Susceptible to Fungal Diseases (Downy and Powdery Mildew), Leaf Roll Virus and Rot, Prone to Mutation (suggested but not proven, and it is increasingly likely that Pinot’s clonal diversity is actually due to its much longer history as a cultivated vine in comparison with other major varieties)
Preferred Soil Type: well-drained, calcareous soils and marly loam
Pinotage Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Mid-Budding, Mid-Ripening, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, and Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: Moisture-retaining soils
Sangiovese Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Late-Ripening, Highly Vigorous, Highly Adaptable to its Environment, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew, Botrytis/Grey Rot and Esca
Preferred Soil Type: Low-vigor, calcareous soils
Syrah Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late-Budding, Early-Ripening, Resistance to Disease
Preferred Soil Type: Well-drained, poor rocky soils
Tempranillo Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Early-Budding, Early-Ripening, Susceptible to Rot and Disease
Preferred Soil Type: Calcareous soils
Zinfandel Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Differential Ripening, Mid-Ripening, Compact Clusters
Albarino Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Susceptible to Downy and Powdery Mildew, Moderate Vigor, Early- to Mid-Ripening,
Preferred Soil Type: sand and alluvial topsoils with rocky subsoil (such as granite)
Assyrtiko Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Loose Clusters, Small-Berried, Thick-Skinned, Prone to Oxidation, Resistant to Drought, Resistant to Mildew
Preferred Soil Type: volcanic soil
Chardonnay Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Early-Budding, Susceptible to Grey Rot/Botrytis, Susceptible to Millerandage
Preferred Soil Type: chalk and limestone
Chenin Blanc Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Early-Budding, Late-Ripening (in cool climates), Susceptible to Botrytis/Grey Rot, Susceptible to Oidium, Resistance to Downy Mildew
Preferred Soil Type: calcareous soils
Gewurtztraminer Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-Skinned, Early-Budding, Mid-Ripening, Uneven Ripening, Susceptible to Coulure
Preferred Soil Type: loamy and heavy clay soils
Gruner Veltliner Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Mid- to Late-Budding, Mid- to Late-Ripening, Susceptible to Downy Mildew
Preferred Soil Type: gneiss, loess, other weathered primary rock
Marsanne Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late Budding, Mid-Ripening, High Vigor, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew, and Botrytis/Bunch Rot, Small Berries
Preferred Soil Type: Stony, low-vigor soils
Melon de Bourgogne Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: High-Yielding, Early-Budding, Early-Ripening, Resistance to Cold and Frost, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, and Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: stony, mineral-rich schistous soils
Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains Characteristics
Viticultural Characteristics: Early-Budding, Late-Ripening, Susceptible to Fungal Disease, Susceptible to Leaf Roll Virus, Low-Yielding
Pinot Grigio (Gris) Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Early-Budding, Mid-Ripening, Resistance to Pests and Most Diseases, Susceptible to Botrytis/Grey Rot
Alsatian Biotypes of Pinot Gris:
Gros Grains: larger berries, higher-yielding
Petits Grains: smaller berries, lower-yielding, much rarer
Preferred Soil Type: deep and fertile soils with high mineral conten
Riesling Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late-Budding, Early-Ripening (in warmer climates), Cold-Resistant, Susceptible to Coulure and Grey Rot/Botrytis
Preferred Soil Type: slate and other well-drained, poor soils
Roussanne Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late-Ripening, Uneven Ripening, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew and Botrytis/Grey Rot, Sensitivity to Wind Damage
Preferred Soil Type: Moisture-retaining, moderately fertile soils
Sauvignon Blanc Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Late-Budding, Early-Ripening, Susceptible to Botrytis/Grey Rot and Powdery Mildew
Preferred Soil Type: dry and rocky soils, such as chalk or gravel
Semillon Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thin-Skinned, Early-Ripening, Susceptible to Botrytis/Grey Rot
Preferred Soil Type: gravel and clay-limestone
Torrontes Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Thick-Skinned, High-Yielding
Preferred Soil Type: Sand
Viognier Characteristics and Soil
Viticultural Characteristics: Early-Ripening, Low-Yielding, Poor Fruit Set and Uneven Ripening, Susceptible to Powdery Mildew, Resistance to Botrytis/Grey Rot, Drought-Resistant
Preferred Soil Type: light, sandy topsoils
Associated “Classic” Soil Types:
Condrieu: arzelle (mica-rich deep sand laid over granite bedrock)
