The best wine varieties

True connoisseurs of this wondrous drink know for sure that wine is not guilty. This is not a secret to anyone. Wine varieties are varied. First of all, this is due to the grape variety taken as the basis for the manufacture of this wonderful drink. The recipe for making wine plays a significant role. Some keep it in oak barrels, others prefer glassware. The temperature regime and the method of filtration are also not in the last place in the process of preparing this drink.

Consider several well-known varieties of wines

First, you should consider what groups the drink is divided into. There are not many of them. Among the wine groups are the following:

• Table wines. The alcohol content in them is low. Usually reaches 14% rpm, but may be less. In addition, the low sugar content should be noted.
• Dessert strong wines. The degree of alcohol in them is higher. Moreover, sugar in such wines can contain up to 13%.
• Up to 15 turns in dessert semi-sweet wines. Sugar barely reaches 10%, but often less. Such a group of wines can rightfully be called universal, as it suits many in terms of its taste.
• There is a lot of sugar in dessert sweet varieties. Sometimes it reaches 32%, and starts from a value that is half the maximum indicator. The revolutions are usually 13-16.

Whatever the group of wines discussed above, there is a division into red, white and rosé. They are all good in their own way, and there is a fan for each type. Whether it's white, red, or rosé, it doesn't matter, the leaders among them top the list of the best in the world!

Some of the world's most famous wines

White wine variety (7th in the list of the best wines in the world) Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes 2009 has earned its title for a reason. Moderate strength (14%) of this wonderful white drink, combined with an unrivaled bouquet, make it a favorite on the tables of wealthy people. White wine variety (7th in the world ranking) Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes 2009 is not one of the "ancient" ones, but this did not prevent it from getting such an honorable place.

Among the popular drinks in the world from among the most expensive, you can also find something interesting. Light wines are renowned for their versatility. For example, "Chardonnay". This wine lies at the origin of the creation of the best and most expensive alcoholic beverages in the world. Its aroma is generously enriched with lemon and oily aromas. A soft and pleasant bouquet to the liking of most lovers. Although there are drinks that are completely different in their qualities, light wines are considered the best among all. Sauvignon blanc occupies the second shelf among white drinks. This wine can be safely called cult, like Chardonnay.

Italian preferences

The varieties of Italian wines are also varied. Sunny Italy has long been famous for its art in this matter. Each wine variety is good in its own way. This has been proven over time.Even those people who, it would seem, have tried a huge number of different wines, sometimes cannot make a choice in favor of one or another type of drink. But many connoisseurs prefer Italian wines. Among the white "representatives" of such a drink in Italy, Riesling is in the lead, and for good reason! After all, it has a truly unforgettable taste and wonderful aroma! Cabernet Sauvignon firmly holds the leading position among red wines. But again: the taste and color, as they say, there is no comrade. And it is especially difficult to choose varieties of Italian wines, because they are all attractive in their own way. Perhaps everything is due to the geographical factor. After all, Italy seems to have been created to grow the best grape varieties!

A little about table wines

The variety of table wine that has won the trust of lovers of this drink is called cardinal. This variety is a native of sunny California (one of the states of the United States). The grapes for the production of this "Californian" begin to be harvested at the end of August. Its taste is excellent, as is the aftertaste. It is used with pleasure by both women and men.

But Gewurztraminer Turckheim 2006, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht - a variety of white dry wine of famous brands - is truly a wonderful choice for any table for holidays and special events. Although they do not belong to the category of canteens. But to answer the question: "What kinds of wine are there?" - you can only by knowing the basics of assessing the qualities of this drink. There are reasons for this. The thing is that there are more than four and a half thousand species of red wine alone in the world! It is impossible to know all of them, and in fact there is no need.

Let's talk about elite wines

There are many different wines. As already mentioned, the whole point is in the manufacturing technology of those, raw materials, weather conditions in which the grapes grew and much more. Elite wines differ from more budgetary "brethren" not only by the high price (which famous drink lovers are willing to pay), but also by the peculiarities of the bouquet. Some of the most sophisticated representatives of the "elite" are presented to your attention:

1. Dom Perignon. As you know, this wine is preferred by stars, famous personalities and the richest people on our planet. It is not the leader of the "hit parade" of the most expensive drinks in the world, but it still occupies a significant niche.
2. The Australian manufacturer Penfolds Grange is arguably the best in Australia. A bottle of this wine will slightly reduce the tightness of your wallet. But it's worth it!
3. Chianti 2000, born by Badia a Passignao (the abbey that invented the variety). The aftertaste of the wine is vanilla-chocolate, and the taste is fruity.

Of course, there are many elite wines in the world. Each year, the lists are updated, replenishing with more and more new representatives of certain varieties. But nevertheless, the above bright representatives are quite widespread in the world and enjoy considerable popularity. Any elite wine is an unforgettable and unique taste, aroma and color. Choosing a drink to the table in honor of a special event, make your choice in favor of expensive, elite wines. You will never regret it! The money spent is nothing compared to the memory left by such drinks.

A little about fortified wines

Fortified wines are unusual and attractive in their own way. Among them there are certain divisions into classes. Exist:

• Strong.
• Flavored.
• Dessert types of fortified wines.

Each of these drinks is wonderful and attractive. A variety of fortified wine that came to us from the distant 19th century is called port. The history of its creation is closely related to the Douro River. Since the 19th century, wine has become very popular. They tried to create an analogue of it everywhere. The recipe has come down to our time. But it is no longer accepted to call it port, at least in the EU. Many people choose this particular type of strong wine. Perhaps the whole point is in the astringency and strength inherent in the drink, and maybe in other features of the product.

Initially, following the practice of the 18th and 19th centuries, whiskey was added to port before being sent to Portugal for sale. Thus, the wine was strengthened and did not deteriorate on the way.

By the way, many countries are now using their own technologies for the production of port. Among them are the USA, Australia, England, and many other states. Each one adds something different to the original recipe, improving some of the qualities.

Sparkling

Sparkling wine varieties are varied. They differ in color, taste and other features. As, however, and non-sparkling wines. Perhaps we should start with a short introduction about the very history of the origin of this type. Asti Spumante is an Italian sparkling wine. The Italians got the secret of making such a thing back in the distant 19th century from the ancient town of Champagne (at least, that's how it is commonly believed). However, the similarities between champagne and spumante were negligible. The only property that both drinks had in common was a great mood, which undoubtedly arises after taking them. The main rule for creating asti spumante is the timely harvesting, in which the deadlines are not violated. The fruit should not be overripe, but it should not be harvested when it is not fully ripe.

In France, the best sparkling wines are those that are born in:

• Alsace;
• Bordeaux;
• Loiret;
• Burgundy.

They are made using a special technology. Unlike other methods of preparing such a specific drink, the French use metal closed vats to contain fermenting wine instead of the usual glass bottles. The method of this preparation is called "sharmat".

The Spaniards began to prepare sparkling wines in 1872. And this custom was born in Catalonia. Such wines in Spain are called "cava". They have a traditional technology for preparing such a drink. And this wine needs to be aged on the lees for 6-9 years according to the technology. It tastes fruity. This is due to the characteristics of the local grapes used for its preparation. Among the most famous Spanish wines of the "cava" group you can find the following:

• Perellada.
• Macabeo.
• Classic Chardonnay.

The technology for making such wine is surprisingly similar to that used to make champagne in France. The product is bottled for aging in glass bottles, which are placed in the basement. But they do it in such a way that all the sediment remains on the neck of the bottle used. Then the next process takes place - sediment removal. After the sediment has been removed from the bottle neck, the Spaniards add sugar to the bottles. The sugar rate is different. This is due to various factors (the variety of grapes used to make sparkling wine, and so on). After the procedure with the addition of sugar, the bottles are closed again. This time up to serving wine to the table.

There is another classification of this wonderful drink, depending on the container in which the wine was aged, and the timing of the aging itself. They are divided into three main groups:

• Aged wines.
• Vintage wines.
• Collectible wines.

The aged are characterized by their improved quality. They must be aged for at least six months (the countdown starts from 1.01 of the next year of yield), in large, capacious stationary containers, before they are bottled.

Vintage wines are a product of very high quality. The terms of their exposure in large stationary containers are not less than one and a half years. This is a necessary condition only for table wines of the brand group. Vintage dessert and fortified drinks must be aged for at least two years.

Collection wines are considered the best variety of the brand group. In addition to the fact that they are kept stationary in metal containers or wooden containers for a long time, they are then bottled and under enoteca conditions are additionally kept for about 3 years.

Wine can also be classified by the content of the sweet ingredient - sugar.There are five varieties, namely:

• Dry table wine. It contains no sugar and the alcohol level is minimal (10-12%). This is due to the fact that the wine material is not alcoholic at all after the fermentation process. When making white drinks, grape juice ferments beforehand. The process of making a red variety is carried out a little differently. The juice is not separated from the berry pulp, fermentation takes place together, after which the liquid is squeezed out using a special press.
• Semi-dry and semi-sweet table wines. The drink becomes like this, because the fermentation process is abruptly interrupted by strong cooling of the fermenting mass. In the starting material, about 11-13% alcohol is formed and 3-8% of sugar residues remain.
• Special fortified wines. A certain amount of alcohol is added to the fermenting wort. In this case, the process stops and thereby leaves the required amount of sugar in the drink. They are also divided into strong, dessert flavored drinks.
• Port wine, sherry, Madeira, Marsala are strong wines.
• About 17-20% of natural alcohol and sugar (7-14%) is usually found in port. The rest of the degree was introduced during alcoholization of the drink.

Based on the aging time and the quality of the grapes, the final product can be divided into two categories. The first is ordinary wine (ordinary). In turn, it is broken down into young and high quality. Ordinary, or typical, wines are made from a variety of grape varieties that can be grown geographically anywhere in the world. The process follows the general technology and rules. The resulting drink is not stored for a long time. After six months, the wine is sold.

A natural table drink is considered young, which is sold by January 1 of the next harvest year. Higher quality for elite wines. They are produced in the most optimal and productive years of the vineyards. It is imperative that a specific grape variety and geographical area with optimal conditions for its growth and fertility be used. During harvesting, strict and careful control of raw materials by varietal composition is carried out. Processing is carried out directly at the collection point. Everything is aged in huge oak or metal vats. It can also be kept in glass containers (bottles), in this case, the organoleptic and taste qualities of such a drink are significantly improved. The aging and fermentation process takes place using special technologies. The initial alcohol content in wine is 10%. It is stored perfectly and can stand for many, many years. Over the years, its quality and price will only grow.

Classification of wine depending on the amount of carbon dioxide in the drink

By the presence of carbon dioxide in wine, it can be divided into two types:

1. Quiet wine.
2. Effervescent or sparkling.

The complete absence of carbon dioxide in wine or its insignificant residues are characteristic of quiet varieties. Sparkling or fizzy drinks contain excessive amounts of carbon dioxide. They, in turn, are artificially saturated and receive CO2 during fermentation. There are also natural sparkling wines and ordinary sparkling wines made according to the classical principle of bottle fermentation.

Champagne wines

If you want to become a real gourmet and connoisseur of champagne, then knowing only that it is sparkling means nothing at all. It is classified according to the grape variety, the conditions and locality in which it was grown, the availability of sugar and the year of production. Champagne varieties can be divided into vintage and non-vintage drinks.

Two or three times every 10 years, there are ideal conditions for high yields of grape fruits - vintages. A drink produced in one such year is called vintage or vintages. To produce non-vintage champagne, you need to use a mixture of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Aino Noir.For it, average quality wine of the last two or three years is used in the amount of 15-40%.

There are four types of champagne:

1. Cuvees de prestige (special or delux) is considered the oldest and most aged sparkling drink from an expensive grape variety.
2. White from white. Made from Chardonnay grapes (only white varieties) - blanc de blancs.
3. White from black. The grapes "Pinot Noir" and "Pinot Meunier" are blank de noirs (red varieties).
4. As a result of mixing and combining white and red wines, you get rose, that is, pink.

Sweet wines

Lovers of sweet, delicious wines need to know the best varieties. These include semillon (semillon), muscadelle (muscadelle), gewurztraminer (gewurzstraminer), tocai (tokai), riesling (riesling), muscat (muscat of Alsace), chardonnay (chardonnay). This list is far from complete, but this selection contains the most refined and popular varieties of sweet wine, loved by true gourmets.

In order to become a real connoisseur and a person who is well versed in wines, you need to know all the classifications, their meanings and basic facts related to the conditions and terrain of growing grape fruits. It is also very important to be able to select the right variety depending on the holiday or event. Even in spite of different tastes and customs, there are cases that require the mandatory presence of a certain bottle of wine. For example, how can you celebrate and meet the New Year without a good bottle of sparkling champagne? Many simply cannot imagine this particular holiday without it.

Let's summarize

Enjoy delicious drinks of all categories and varieties. Having tried each of them, you can draw certain conclusions and opt for one or more types. Moreover, the assortment is designed for every taste and wallet of a gourmet client. Although there are often excellent wines at a reasonable price. Especially often they can be found among the new varieties that have not yet managed to fall in love with the world community, but are still endowed with excellent taste. Experiment, because everything in life is worth trying (within reason, of course)!

Some gardeners manage to make wine from almost every available grape variety. However, the technology of wine production involves the use of certain varieties of culture, filled with a whole bunch of aromas. The most popular white and blue wine varieties are discussed in this article.

The best wine grape varieties

The grapes from which juices and wine are made are called technical. The characteristic of the bunches looks modest in comparison with the table species:

• medium to small size with densely packed fruits;
• the average weight of the hand is 120-150 grams;
• high content of juice (75-85% by weight of the berry);
• the sugar content exceeds 18%.

Wine grapes bear fruit well and consistently. This is facilitated by the increased resistance of plants to fungal infections and pest attacks. Next, we will find out which variety is best suited for winemaking.

The best white varieties for winemaking

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a world-famous technical grade of Western European origin. It is not possible to thoroughly find out the pedigree, but there is an opinion that the variety appeared thanks to the crossing of Pinot noir and Gue blanc.

Berries are processed to produce wines with different flavor notes and fruity aromas. Also, part of the harvest is annually sent for the production of wine materials, which are subsequently used as a champagne flavor enhancer.

Brief characteristics of the plant:

• the bush is medium-sized, although strong-growing lashes are also found;
• the growing season lasts 130-140 days;
• flowers are bisexual, which ensures good pollination;
• conical clusters are loose, weight reaches 900-1000 grams;
• white-green berries are set off with a golden tint;
• fruit shape - rounded slightly elongated;
• grape weight - 12-15 gr., each contains 2-3 seeds;
• sugar content - 18% with an acidity of 8-12 g / l;
• yield - 8-12 t / ha;
• the culture is frost-resistant, can withstand temperatures up to minus 20 °.

Chardonnay tolerates drought, with an excess of humid environment, the fruits can rot. Resistance to mildew and powdery mildew is moderate.

Chardonnay variety

Bianca

Wine material from Bianchi has an unrivaled taste with notes of vanilla and almonds. For the production of table, semi-sweet and other wines, blending with other juices with a low sugar content is used. This helps to avoid the sweetness that is characteristic of this grape.

The grape was bred in Hungary, the parents are Villars Blanc and Chasselas Bouvier.

Brief characteristics of the plant:

• early ripening period, growing season - 110-120 days;
• medium-sized bush;
• cylindrical brushes, weight 90-120 gr .;
• fruits are small and medium, weight 1.5 g .;
• the shape of the berries is round, slightly elongated, the color is greenish-yellow;
• the skin is thin, the taste is harmonious, filled with a bouquet of aromas;
• the crop does not lose its presentation on the vine after the onset of full maturity;
• sugar content - 20-28% with an acidity of 7-9 g / l;
• there is a high resistance to mildew, gray rot, oidium, tolerance to phylloxera;
• frost resistance - up to minus 27 °.

Bianca on the vine does not lose its appearance even after full maturation

Muscat

Medium-early ripening muscat with a growing season of 130-140 days. Muscat is one of the oldest varieties originating from Syria, Arabia and Egypt. The peculiarity of the culture is the ability to accumulate a high level of sugar (up to 25% with an acidity of 6.5-7 g / l).

A brief description of:

• medium-sized bush;
• the weight of a conical bunch is 100-450 grams;
• berries sit tightly on the brush, the weight of one is on average 4 grams;
• the taste is saturated with nutmeg;
• yield - 66-109 c / ha;
• disease resistance is low.

Excellent marketability and taste outweighs poor survival in adverse climatic conditions. Grapes immediately react to a lack of moisture and its excess, does not have resistance to low temperatures, and requires potassium dressing.

Muscat close up

Sauvignon Blanc

The variety was obtained by crossing Chenin Blanc and Taminer. Thanks to its excellent taste, balance of sugar and acidity, grapes are recognized all over the world. The peculiarity of the culture is the timely harvest. When overripe, the berry loses its properties and taste, becomes unsuitable for winemaking.

A brief description of:

• growing season 130-135 days;
• bushes are medium-sized, but powerful enough with a developed root system;
• clusters of small size, weight is 75-120 grams;
• the berry is small, the color is greenish-white with a waxy coating (each contains 2-3 seeds);
• low yield;
• sugar content - 18-23% with an acidity of 6.7-11 g / l.

The culture shows weak resistance to powdery mildew and gray mold, tolerance to mildew. In growing conditions with high humidity, shedding of flowers is noted. Soils are preferable with the content of clayey interlayers, as well as gravel and sandy inclusions.

Sauvignon Blanc - the main thing is not to wait for the berries to ripen so as not to spoil the wine

Riesling

The variety, donated by nature itself, is considered the king in winemaking. High-quality wines are made from berries with excellent taste, which are filled with different notes and shades.

A brief description of:

• growing season - 140-150 days;
• dense clusters, weight 80-100 gr.;
• berries are yellow-green with a bluish tinge, weight 1.3-1.5 g., rounded shape;
• the skin is dense, but thin;
• frost resistance up to minus 20 °;
• full ripening of fruits occurs in October-November;
• sugar content 18% with acidity 9-11 g / l;
• disease resistance is low.

Fruiting grapes on different soils, but the more acceptable is the land with a lime content.

Riesling has low disease resistance

Pinot Blanc

The representative of the Pinot family is characterized by multifaceted taste, it is used to make still, sparkling and dessert wines. Burgundy is the birthplace of the plant, but today almost all European countries and other regions can boast of high yields.

A brief description of:

• growing season - 140-150 days;
• clusters of medium density weighing 85-150 grams;
• berries of a round shape, yellow-green color, weight 1.4-1.7 g;
• the average sugar content reaches 20%.

The peculiarity of the variety lies in the low content of acid and aromatic substances, as a result of which Pinot Blanc is recommended for making wine, which should be consumed by young people.

Ripening period Pinot Blanc - 150 days

What are the best varieties for red wine

Pinot noir

Black fruitful grapes ripen in 141-151 days. There is no reliable information about the origin, but Traminer and Pinot Meunier are considered the likely parents. The bush is medium-sized with an unusual color of the lower leaves (green with a red tint). The flowers are bisexual, there are no problems with pollination. A bunch of small sizes, weighing 66-120 grams, the shape is often cylindrical. The berry has a pleasant taste, colorless juice, balanced sugar content. Its shape is round, the color is dark blue.

The yield of Pinot Noir is 50-60 c / ha. The plant is vulnerable to phylloxera, tolerance to gray rot, powdery mildew is manifested.

The grapes do not develop well on flat and low terrain.

Pinot noir is vulnerable to phylloxera and gray rot

Saperavi

A very old Georgian grape variety with dark blue berries. Saperavi vegetation period is 150-160 days, harvesting begins in late September - early October. The bush is beautifully hung with broad-conical bunches with small grapes, the weight of one is 90-100 gr. The berry is very juicy with a harmonious taste, its weight barely exceeds 1 g. Each contains 2-3 seeds.

The plant has a weak resistance to mildew, oidium; at high humidity, it is affected by gray rot. In comparison with other varieties, it is less likely to be damaged by a leafworm.

The yield of Saperavi is 90-110 kg / ha. The culture is frost-resistant, survives the winter without shelter at a temperature not exceeding -20 °.

Saperavi is a frost-resistant variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon berries are very juicy with a balanced taste, shaded by a hint of currant. The variety was bred in France, but is now cultivated in many countries of the world. Technical ripeness occurs in 143-165 days. The bunch has the shape of a cylinder, the weight is 70-80 grams. Each berry contains 1-3 seeds. The skin is dark blue in color of medium density, which ensures good preservation and transportability of the fruit.

Productivity - 55-60 c / ha. There is an increased resistance of the culture to mildew and gray rot. In comparison with other varieties, it resists phylloxera, leafworm attacks better.

Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal for winemaking

Cabernet Franc

Technical ripeness occurs in 145-160 days. The unusual taste of berries is filled with different notes, in which you can feel raspberries and blackberries. Cylindrical bunches have a dark blue color, the weight does not exceed 70-90 grams. The yield is low (35-40 c / ha), but this is compensated by the good resistance of the plant to mildew, phylloxera.

Cabernet Franc variety

Merlot

The Merlot variety was bred in France, the intended parents are Cabernet Franc, crossed with Magdalene and Noir de Charente. The clusters are medium in size and density, have a dark blue color with a characteristic waxy coating, weighing 110-150 grams. The taste is balanced with a touch of nightshade.

The grapes ripen in 152-164 days. The plant shows average resistance to powdery mildew, phylloxera, mildew. Frost resistance - up to minus 15-17 °.

Merlot has medium frost resistance and can withstand temperatures down to -15

Sangiovese

Italian thermophilic technical grape with a vegetation period of 145-160 days... The bushes are medium-sized, the flowers are bisexual, the clusters are cylindrical of medium density, weighing up to 100 grams. There are many clones that have slightly different parameters of the berries (0.7 - 1.3 grams). The flavor of the fruit, saturated with different notes, adds sophistication to any drink.

The heat-loving Sangiovese variety

Syrah

The variety is resistant to cold and high temperatures, but does not tolerate strong winds and drought. Taste qualities meet the requirements for technical varieties of grapes, however, it cannot boast of a high yield (30 c / ha). The juice of the fruits of mature plants is saturated with a beautiful dark purple hue and density. Fruit ripening period is 145-158 days. The weight of the shirokokonicheskaya bunch is within 80-120 gr.

Syrah is very capricious to weather conditions and requires a lot of light and heat.

late-ripening Syrah grapes

Carmenere

The grape belongs to the old French varieties with a growing season of 152-165 days. Currently, it is widely cultivated mainly in Chile, it is considered the pride of the country. The bushes of the plant are vigorous, the bunch can be in the form of a cylinder, wide-conical and shapeless, weight is 75-100 grams.

A medium-sized berry barely weighs 1 g, but the pulp is very tasty, sweet, but without sugary. The beautiful dark purple color makes it possible to produce wines from pink to dark in color.

Carmenere is very sensitive to weather conditions, cold, shows low resistance to diseases. However, the grapes survived the phylloxer.

French Carmenere

Mourvedre

A late-ripening plant native to Spain. The bushes are well developed, have a strong vine and root system. Leaves are medium in size with a characteristic three-lobed shape. Dark blue berries are often rounded, but can take on a slightly oval shape, the parameters are average. Productivity with low watering is up to 60 kg / ha, but with regular irrigation it can significantly increase. The bunches are formed in the form of a cone or cylinder, the berries are tightly pressed against each other.

The culture has a weak resistance to fungal infections, but it tolerates prolonged drought rather tolerably, and high requirements are not imposed on the type of soil when planting.

Dense Mourvèdre berry

Grenache

A versatile variety, but most often the fruit is used to make grapes and juice. The variety is one of the most abundant on the planet due to the versatility of the vine. The grapes are very thermophilic, easily tolerate drought and heat. There are also no high requirements for the soil when planting seedlings. Productivity in dry conditions is high - up to 20 kg / ha. Features of berries: low acidity, juiciness, ruby ​​color, rich aroma.

Drought-resistant Grenache variety

Each variety has unique qualities that give the wine a unique shade and aroma. Before choosing a variety, it is necessary to clarify the compatibility of the wine material with juices of other varieties, then at home you can create an exquisite drink, and most importantly - an exclusive one, the taste of which will remain in your memory for a long time.

Wine can be made from almost any grape, but do not forget that it is the variety that determines the characteristics of taste, aromatic bouquet and color of the drink. And not all varieties are suitable for a really high-quality drink. To ensure that home wine products do not disappoint and please with the expected results, it is worth choosing the right wine grape variety.

Technical grapes

The grapes intended for the production of wine and natural juice are called technical. It differs from dining rooms in more modest dense clusters with medium and small juicy berries. The technical grape varieties have a high juice content (75–85% of the berry weight).

The acidity and sugar content of the berries determines what type of wine product (for example, dry or dessert wine, champagne or cognac) can be made from a given grape variety. Sugar in technical varieties intended for wine production must be more than 18%.

An important quality of technical grapes is high yield stability.

It should be noted that the same technical grape varieties can have completely different uses depending on the climate, soils and other features of the area where it is cultivated.

Technical grape varieties are grown in all geographic zones where the cultivation of this crop is possible, Ukraine is no exception.

Popular varieties for winemaking

The best varieties for industrial and home production of wine products include:

• Aligote;
• Cabernet Sauvignon;
• Merlot;
• White Muscat;
• Pinot Noir;
• Riesling;
• Rkatsiteli;
• Saperavi;
• Traminerrose (Tramin);
• Chardonnay.

White and dark grapes are used to make material for sparkling drinks (champagne) and cognac, a wide range of high-quality wines of various types: dry red / white, sweet (dessert), liqueur (strong).

White and pink technical varieties

White wine can be made from almost any grape (including dark one, if the juice of the berries is colorless). The technology for the production of white wines (fermentation on white) is based on the use of squeezed grape juice without the skin (the skin contains coloring pigments), so a light drink is obtained, the shades of which vary from golden yellow to cognac. Only light (white) wines are obtained from white grapes.

Aligote

This popular French grape, which has been known for more than three hundred years, is considered one of the main varieties of white grapes for the production of high-quality natural juices, white table (dry) wines, vintage champagne, as well as blend and cognac blanks. Aligote is grown in France, USA (California), Eastern Europe.

For example, vintage wines "Perlina stepu" and "Aligote" (Ukraine) are made from this variety grown in Odessa and Dnepropetrovsk regions.

Wine from Aligote is best consumed by young people, since the aging process does not improve drinks from this technical variety.

Berries of medium size, round, delicate light green color, thin skin. The taste of the grapes is pleasant, the flesh is sweetish, very delicate, so this grape is also used as a table grape.

Riesling

The oldest German variety cultivated in Alsace and on the banks of the Rhine. This amazing grape competes with the recognized leader among white wine varieties - French Chardonnay.

At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, German Riesling wine was very highly valued, its cost was as high as the prices for the most famous red wines from France.

An excellent dry wine from Riesling has a characteristic taste that combines amazing softness, fruity sour notes and light astringency.

Small dense bunches of these grapes are formed by round and very juicy greenish berries. Vine bushes easily tolerate frost, which makes it possible to grow this variety in different climatic zones.

It is a high-yielding (up to 100 kg / ha), stable variety, which is important for successful winemaking.

Ukraine cultivates the Rhine Riesling.

Chardonnay

This technical grape is an excellent material for a wide variety of French dry wines. It is considered the main variety for champagne winemaking. The birthplace of grapes is Burgundy.

Professional winemakers are sure that it is simply impossible to make bad wine from these grapes.

This variety is ideal for the production of a hop drink in all characteristics. In Chardonnay wines, a rich bouquet of aromas gradually unfolds in the process of making the drink. Moreover, the aroma of wine depends on the technology of its production.

It can be light drinks with a delicate scent of fruit, with citrus and floral notes, or rich sugary wines with the taste and smell of honey or sweet aromatic pastries, marzipans.

Long ripening reveals the taste of hazel and dry fruit in the wine.

The greenish-white Chardonnay grapes moderately accumulate sugar, and slowly decrease acidity as they ripen.

Despite the fact that the variety has a moderate yield (70 kg / ha), is susceptible to fungal diseases, and in rainy years it suffers from gray rot, it is very popular among winemakers.

White Muscat

This variety has a pleasant nutmeg aroma, which gives wine products a special piquancy and attractiveness. It has sweet, fleshy berries with a tough skin.

Of the variety of nutmeg varieties, white is the most delicate and refined. It is used to make noble sweet (dessert) and aromatic sparkling wines.

White Muscat bushes are sensitive to frost, so in the northern regions they need to be covered during the winter.

Rkatsiteli

These Georgian grapes are used to prepare pleasant strong and dry wines of the highest quality. This variety is also called Poplar, King or Budashuri. It is also cultivated in the southern regions of Ukraine.

A variety with a high yield, the brushes stay on the vine for a long time, which makes it possible to more efficiently use the crop for the manufacture of various varieties of intoxicating drinks. The round, light green, almost transparent berries have a very original taste.

Traminer pink (Tramin)

This is one of the oldest technical varieties in Austria, which is cultivated throughout Europe, despite the fact that its yield is significantly dependent on weather conditions.

It is considered one of the most valuable technical varieties. It produces wonderful sparkling, original table and unusual dessert drinks with an exquisite aroma of rose petals.

Tramin has small dense clusters, berries are light pink with a bluish bloom, the skin is strong, dense, the flesh is juicy, melting.
The yield is not very high (60 kg / ha). The bushes are frost-resistant.

Red and black technical grades

Red wines are made only from dark grapes (red and black varieties are suitable). Red fermentation takes place on the pulp with the skin. The color range of red wines is from light red to intense ruby.

Rosé wines are also made from grapes with red berries. To obtain a delicate pink color of the drink, the pulp ferments for several hours, then the pulp is removed and fermentation continues on natural juice. The color of this wine is from pinkish to pale red.

White wines can be made from dark grape varieties, the berries of which have colorless juice.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Famous French wine grape. Used for the production of dry (table) and sweet wine. This variety allows you to get quality drinks that are velvety, delicate and delicate taste, special beauty of the bouquet.

In young wine, she strongly smells and tastes of nightshade and morocco (leather), so such drinks are considered rude. Maturation refines the wine, significantly changing its taste and aroma. All the richness of the Cabernet drink is manifested to the maximum in 8-10 years.

White wine from Cabernet is very different in taste and smell from red.

The grape bunches are cylindrical, the berries are small, dark with a light taste of grass and nightshade, very juicy.

The yield is high (100 kg / ha). This variety is not afraid of cold weather, it is resistant to grape diseases, which made it one of the most popular among producers of quality red wines.

Ukraine is also among the countries where Cabernet is successfully cultivated.

Pinot Noir

The birthplace of this amazing Burgundy grape. It has a sweet taste and rich texture. This variety, like no other, gives a wide variety of flavor notes and amazes with its rich bouquet.

The resulting wine depends on the region of growth, wine preparation technology and many other nuances. Winemakers consider this grape the most mysterious and unpredictable.

But, most importantly, Pinot allows you to get very tasty and high-quality products. It is used to make excellent champagne (white / red / pink), high-quality dry drinks. Aged collection wines from grapes of this variety are one of the most expensive and are very popular with true connoisseurs.

Small dense clusters have very beautiful blue-black or purple berries. Grape juice is colorless, but the skin of the grapes is very rich in pigment.

The variety tolerates frosty weather well, is resistant to diseases, it is cultivated in many countries of the world, one of them is Ukraine.

Merlot Noir

Merlot is a fairly popular technical grape. The homeland of Merlot is Bordeaux (France), but this variety is actively cultivated in Italy. It is considered quite young, for the first time it was mentioned about Merlot only in the 18th century, as the best variety in one of the Libourne winemaking centers.

Merlot is an excellent material for high quality dry and dessert drinks. Wine, including young wine, has a surprisingly mild taste, which combines herbal and fruity notes. To make the wine taste better, drinks from Merlot are aged in oak barrels. Merlot Noir organically complements Cabernet Sauvignon in the traditional blend of Bordeaux winemakers.

Rounded black grapes have dense skin and juicy flesh. The berry has a sweetish nightshade flavor.

general review

It's nice to get together with friends or family and have a chat over a glass of wine. This is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages, which is good for the human body in moderation.

For example, wine improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, lowers blood cholesterol levels, and prevents the development of cancer. And this is by no means an exhaustive list of the beneficial properties of this noble drink. By the way, preference should be given to dry or semi-dry wine. It is considered the most useful.

Wine comes in many varieties. It is very easy to get lost in the variety of assortment that is presented in any liquor store, restaurant or cafe.

We have collected extremely useful information on 9 of the most popular wines - it will help you learn how to choose a wine, almost like a real sommelier.

1. Pinot noir

Peculiarities

Pinot noir is a piercing, complex, bright taste and aroma. At first glance, there is nothing remarkable about this wine. Outwardly, it is pale, and in some variations it is completely transparent. But the highlight of this wine is not its color. The scent is what firmly binds fans to Pinot Noir. The wine unfolds gradually and according to a complex scheme: from berry, for example, cherry or blueberry notes to a whole group of smells of an autumn forest. These wines perfectly complement delicious food.

What food goes well with

Pinot noir is exactly the kind of wine that goes well with food and helps lunch or dinner acquire notes of sophistication and completeness. The ideal company for this type of wine will be meat with a rich taste and aroma, dense poultry (such as game birds) and dense fish (for example, tuna). Pinot noir goes well with Italian cuisine, and especially with pasta.

2. Sauvignon blanc

Peculiarities

Sauvignon blanc has clear and bright fruit flavors. There are 2 main bouquets of tastes and aromas. The first gives off more peaches, apricots, exotic fruits, and the second - citrus fruits (lemon, lime, grapefruit) and their zest. Both bouquets also include herbaceous aromas: lemongrass, freshly cut grass, meadow scent.

Sauvignon blanc is great for summer and is easy to drink a lot, especially when chilled. The French Loire is rightfully considered the world center for making sauvignon blanc.By the way, as for the wine from the Loire, its aroma is characterized by the tone of cat urine. In the conservative wine world, many jokes are made on this topic, which, however, does not prevent Sauvignon Blanc from remaining one of the most popular wines.

What food goes well with

This wine has an amazing gastronomic combination. It goes perfectly with any seafood and fish. Also try Sauvignon Blanc with French cheeses - you will definitely be impressed. Moreover, this white wine perfectly complements vegetable and fruit salads, especially with the addition of exotic fruits.

3. Shiraz

Peculiarities

Shiraz is also called "sira" in another way. The difference is only in pronunciation. But a lot depends on the origin of this wine. The European and American views on what a shiraz should look like differ markedly.

Thus, European versions may seem heavier than American ones, but their fruit and berry component is more balanced and less intrusive due to notes of smoke, flowers and more pronounced minerality. The main berries, the aroma of which can be easily caught in shiraz, are blackberries and blueberries. Rarely does a business go without allspice black pepper.

What food goes well with

If you decide to drink a couple of glasses of shiraz on the weekend, then you should take a responsible attitude to the choice of dishes for it. This is a rather finicky wine. It opens successfully with meat. It will be even better if it is grilled. Wines dominated by berry aromas will perfectly complement berry pies.

In general, the main rule that should be followed when choosing food for shiraz is: the food should have a rich and powerful taste. Add more spices and herbs. Experiment with chocolate that's over 70% cocoa.

4. Riesling

Peculiarities

This wine has a rather complex taste and aroma, but at the same time appears before fans in the form of a paradoxical and multifaceted drink. This variety is not at all thermophilic, therefore it is not produced in hot countries. The palm in the production of this wine is shared by Germany and Austria.

Rieslings vary markedly in the amount of sugar they contain. The key highlight is the acidity of this wine. Thus, Riesling will definitely not be sugary. The composition of the wine is considered balanced and fluctuates on the verge of sweetness and freshness.

What food goes well with

Dry versions of Riesling, in which the sugar content tends to zero, goes well with vegetables, mushrooms, chicken, turkey, tender veal and seafood, and also complements all kinds of spices and herbs.

The sweet versions are rather self-contained and do not require any food supplement. If you really want to chew something, then preference should be given to the most light and unobtrusive snacks.

5. Cabernet

Peculiarities

Cabernet is the most popular wine in the world. It is not surprising that there are many variations of it, and everyone has their own point of view on taste, aroma and basic characteristics of cabernet. The French region of Bordeaux is considered the leader in the production of cabernet. It was the local winemakers who managed to make a sensual, powerful and exciting drink. In general, Cabernet is an unpretentious wine variety that is grown in many countries. Californian cabernet stands apart - Americans position their wines as pure and varietal.

The taste and aroma are significantly influenced by the age of the wine. It is difficult to distinguish notes in a young Cabernet. Most likely, it will simply give off a berry-fruity bouquet and hit the receptors with tannins, creating a tart and astringent sensation in the mouth. Older wine opens up much more effectively. In it, you can already separate the aromas of black currant, blackberry, raspberry, plum, and even catch the smells of leather, earth and spices.

Cabernet is a wine that is measured by ratings.Quality wine actually ranks high in the ratings, and there is no deception here.

What food goes well with

Cabernet goes well with almost any red meat. You can not spare spices and herbs. The combination of cabernet with lamb, venison, goose or duck meat will be the most delicious. It will also perfectly complement all Italian dishes: pasta, lasagne, pizza and salads.

6. Chardonnay

Peculiarities

Chardonnay is the most versatile, versatile and versatile wine in the world. Sometimes it doesn't even look like itself. An uncomplicated fruity bouquet with vanilla flavor, a rich standard of tart white wine - these are all Chardonnay. This wine is very whimsical. Luck is especially important here, and mistakes are catastrophic. Burgundy vineyards and California are the most popular places for chardonnay production.

By the way, in the case of chardonnay, a lot depends on the endurance. If the wine was aged in a barrel, then it should have a rich, refined and intense taste and aroma. There is also another way. It is more economical in terms of time and resources. Some winemakers pass the drink through vats of oak chips. This gives the drink a distinct vanilla flavor. This method has already lost its popularity and relevance, but if you come across just such a copy, then just cool it better. Chardonnay is also used to make delicious blanc de blancs champagne with a rich fruity taste.

What food goes well with

Due to the fact that the flavors of chardonnay often vary significantly within the same variety, there is no universal list of dishes that it successfully complements. It all depends on the taste and aroma. So, the Burgundy version, which is famous for its minerality and creaminess, goes well with creamy sauce, tender veal and even smoked fish. Lighter, fruity versions can be enjoyed with fruit tarts and Asian-spiced dishes. Hear what your taste buds are telling you.

7. Gruner Veltliner

Peculiarities

Gruner comes in all sorts of variations. It can either have a viscous, powerful, rich taste, or be a light dessert wine. Among the main and most memorable tones in the gruner are white stone fruits (peach, nectarine, apricot), citrus fruits and spices (white and pink pepper, ginger).

As for the place of its production, this variety is firmly associated with only one region on the planet - this is Austria. The Grüner Veltliner has no impressive assessments and striking background, but he is the hallmark of Austrian winemaking, and therefore deserves attention.

What food goes well with

The spicy-fruity taste and aroma make the Gruner Veltliner an excellent addition to meat. In general, this wine goes well with all Austrian national meat dishes. But its gastronomic compatibility is not limited to this. This wine can be served with turkey, chicken, omelets, grilled fish and almost any vegetable. Spices are not a hindrance to him, so you shouldn't feel sorry for them.

8. Merlot

Peculiarities

Merlot is a soft, feminine wine that manages to show its assertiveness and character. A good merlot really has a powerful, rich flavor and a memorable aroma. However, it definitely cannot be called sharp. This variety is grown in all regions where winemaking is widespread, but France, of course, remains the most popular place.

The bouquet of aromas for which merlot is famous can be endlessly described. These are ripe berries and fruits (cherries, plums, blackberries, raspberries), and numerous spices, including pepper, licorice, cinnamon, as well as flowers, mint, and herbs. If the merlot is aged in an oak barrel, then over time the wine also acquires a seductive aroma and taste of cigars, smoke, dark chocolate, old leather and nuts.

What food goes well with

Its ability to smooth out harsh corners and its mellow yet rich flavor make merlot an almost universal drink. It goes well with any meat, especially if it's grilled. Merlot goes well with Italian cuisine, as well as all kinds of salads. With spices and herbs, this variety coexists quite peacefully. As for fish, tuna should be preferred.

9. Gewurztraminer

Peculiarities

Gewurztraminer is an aromatic wine made in many regions, but its homeland remains Alsace. Its aroma is very bright and intense and not as subtle as that of other wines. Gewurz is frankly fragrant with roses. That is why true connoisseurs do not particularly like it, because its taste is quite obvious and quickly guessed. However, in addition to roses in the aroma of Gewurztraminer, you can hear notes of chili, peach, grapefruit and lemon zest, lemongrass, bergamot, honey, pastry sweets and meadow herbs.

As they say, there are no comrades in taste and color, but the bouquet is quite impressive. So this variety has every chance to please you. In addition, it has a good gastronomic compatibility.

What food goes well with

Despite the fact that the acidity of this wine is not so high, it is quite enough to serve Gewürztraminer with rich cheeses and smoked fish. The sweet versions complement baked goods perfectly. So, sweet Gewürztraminer and strudel are a classic combination in Alsace.

And dry options go well with oriental cuisine, for example, Chinese and Japanese. Some winemakers even add Gewürztraminer to other young wines during the making process to serve with sushi and rolls.