Grapes are the main ingredient in wine, and with so many different kinds out there, each offering its own unique flavors and personality, it can be a lot to take in. Whether you’re just starting to explore wine or you already love discovering new varieties, learning a bit about the most common grapes can help you understand what makes each one special. Knowing what to expect from different grapes can also make tasting wine more fun and give you clues about what you might enjoy most. So, let’s take a quick look at some of the most popular and widely enjoyed grape types grown throughout the world and right here in Michigan — from bold reds to light whites — and what makes each one stand out.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This is one of the most popular red grapes. It makes bold, full-bodied wines with flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and sometimes a bit of spice or vanilla from aging in oak. It’s a strong wine that can get better with age.
Merlot
Merlot is a smooth and easy-to-drink red. It has softer tannins and tastes like plum, cherry, and chocolate. It’s a great choice if you want something not too heavy, and it works well on its own or blended with other grapes.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a lighter red wine that’s elegant and flavorful. It often has tastes of red berries like raspberry and cherry, along with earthy notes. It’s a good pick if you like wines that are more delicate and refined. Our Braganini Reserve Pinot Noir is exquisite!
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is one of the most popular white grapes worldwide. It can taste crisp and citrusy or rich and buttery, depending on how it’s made. Common flavors include apple, pear, and tropical fruits. Explore our wide variety of chardonnay wines!
Sauvignon Blanc
This white wine is fresh and lively. It usually has flavors of green apple, lime, and grass, with a bright, tangy feel. It’s perfect for hot days or when you want a refreshing drink.
Riesling
Riesling can be dry or sweet and is known for its floral aroma. It often has tastes of peach, apricot, and honey. It’s a great wine to enjoy with spicy food or as a sweet treat. We have a few different riesling wines for you to try!
Syrah
This bold red grape makes rich, spicy wines with flavors of blackberry, black pepper, and sometimes smoky notes. It’s perfect if you like strong, flavorful wines.
Concord
Concord is a classic American grape, especially in the Northeast. It makes dark purple wines that taste very sweet, with hints of grape jelly and floral notes. It’s great for casual drinking or making grape juice. We suggest you try our Concord wine for its sweet, grape-forward flavor!
Niagara
Niagara is a white grape that grows well in North America. It produces light, crisp wines with flavors of apple, citrus, and flowers. It’s often used for sweet wines and is perfect for easy, refreshing drinking. Our Niagara sweet white wine is a classic!
Catawba
Catawba is a pretty red grape that makes sweet, fruity wines. It’s often used in dessert wines or sparkling wines, and it’s great if you like a sweet, flavorful drink. Try our sweet Catawba wine!
In conclusion, getting to know these grapes is a fun way to start exploring wine. Each one offers something different, and finding your favorites is part of the adventure. Want to learn more? We invite you to visit one of our tasting rooms! Our wine consultants can share more about these varietals as well as others used in our wines. Cheers to your wine journey!
