Red wine is derived from red or black grapes. The type of wine that is produced depends on the kind of grape used, the region and location of where the grapes are grown, the weather and soil conditions and ultimately what the wine maker does with the grapes once they've been picked.
Barbera, Brunello and Cabernet
Barbera (Bar-bare-uh) originated in the Piedmont region of Italy and can be found throughout California. Its flavor is of juicy plums and black cherries, accompanied by an acidic, full bodied texture.
Brunello (brew-nehl-oh) is a derivative of the Sangiovese grape and produces a bold, fruity flavor. Most notable is Brunello di Montalcino, which is both rare and expensive.
Cabernet Sauvignon (cab-urr-NAY-so-vin-yon) can be found in many wine regions.
Deep ruby or purple coloration with full to medium body, Cabernet Sauvignon is dry with intense flavoring (currants, bell peppers and sometimes hints of vanilla) and aroma.
Cabernet Franc (cab-urr-NAY frahnk) is usually blended with other grapes. It is grown in the Loire Valley of France and has a medium to light body.
Dolcetto, Gamay, Grenache and Malbec
Dolcetto (dole-CHET-toe) is grown in Italy's Piedmont region. It has notes of almonds and licorice and yields a fruity wine.
Gamay (ga-MAY) is predominantly produced in France's Beaujolais region. It has a lower alcohol content and fruity, light and fresh flavor.
Grenache (gri-NAHSH) is predominately grown in France's southern Rhone valley, California and Spain. It has a good structure and raspberry flavoring, making it easy to drink.
Malbec (Mahl-bek) is a great accompaniment to any meal containing meat. It is grown in France's Loire Valley but is predominately grown in Argentina. Other regions include Chile, Australia and California. Where the grapes are grown alters the end result; however, the flavor is typically ripe with berries, plums and spice.
Merlot, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir and Sangiovese
Merlot (murr-LOH) is very drinkable and pairs well with anything. It is grown in Bordeaux, Italy, Washington, California, Romania, Chile and Australia. It is notable for plum, herbal and juicy black cherry flavoring paired with low acidity.
Nebbiolo (NEH-bee-oh-lo) hails from Italy's Piedmont region and is characterized by its light, dry body and high acidity.
Pinot Noir (Pee-no-na-wahr) goes well with lamb, chicken and grilled salmon since it has soft tannins and fruity flavors of plum, strawberries and cherries accompanied by notes of worn leather, tea leaves or damp earth. It is produced in France's Burgundy region, Austria, Oregon, California and New Zealand.
Sangiovese (San-gee-o-VEH-zeh) is considered to be the signature grape of Italy's Chianti and Tuscany regions. It is the perfect accompaniment for Mediterranean and Italian dishes and is characterized by fresh juicy plum and berry flavors.
Shiraz, Temperanillo and Zinfandel
Syrah/Shiraz (sih-RA and shih-RAHZ) are two separate names for the same thing. In Europe, it is exclusively called Syrah but in Australia it is known as Shiraz. The wine is predominantly grown in Australia, the Rhone Valley of France and California. It has rich flavors of black currants combined with black pepper and toffee undertones.
Temperanillo (temp-rah-NEE-yoh) is predominately grown in Spain's Rioja region and is characterized by its full-body.
Zinfandel (Zihn-fn-dell) is characterized by its zesty peppery flavors paired with ripe berries. It is predominately grown in California and has a medium body with modest acidity levels.
Tags: predominately grown, grapes grown, Piedmont region, Cabernet Sauvignon, cherries accompanied
