7 Most Popular Types of Wine

You may be surprised to learn, but the last study on vineyards worldwide was conducted by Kym Anderson and his team at the University of Adelaide in 2011. Needless to say, the world is not exactly up-to-date with its wine information. Therefore, it is a little difficult to come up with a definitive list of the most popular types of wines around the world. However, it’s definitely not impossible.

Wines generally fall into two broad categories – red and white. However, that’s a gross oversimplification of a drink that has over 10,000 varieties worldwide. So whether you are trying out wine for the first time and aren’t sure where to begin or are in the mood to expand your wine horizons, make sure that you have tried at least a couple of these popular types of wines.

· Cabernet Sauvignon

This red wine is the perfect companion for any strong-flavored dish – especially all types of grilled meats. The authentic Cabernet Sauvignon has a full body and a dry taste that captures red wine’s distinctiveness and is best served at room temperature. Commonly referred to as ‘Cabs’, it is grown in all the major winemaking regions from Napa Valley in California to Beqaa Valley in Lebanon. Since it is known to improve well with age, if you happen to stumble upon an old bottle in your cellar, you may be pleasantly surprised by the result.

· Chardonnay

Arguably the most well-known wine in the world, Chardonnay produced from a grape with the same name. Since it is made everywhere around the world, the taste may take on a herbal, spicy, fruity, buttery, or vanilla flavor depending on where it is from and how it’s aged. Similarly, different varieties of this white wine may be either dry or sweet and have a medium-high to medium-low acidity. It is a medium to light-bodied wine and pairs well with chicken, pork, mushrooms, creams sauces, all times of cheeses, and shellfish – especially crab and lobster.

· Pinot Noir

This is probably the reddest red wine you’ll ever come across. Described as smooth and fruit forwards, this mid-bodied wine combines the tastes of several red flavors, including red fruits, red vegetables, and red flowers. Flavors such as cherry, rose, beet, cranberry, and rhubarb are commonly associated with Pinot Noir, accompanied by just the right hint of spices and earthiness. The authentic Pinot Noir typically has a long, lingering finish and pairs well chicken, pork, duck, wild game, veal, and cured meats, as well as dishes that use cream sauces or soft cheese as a base.

· Merlot

Merlot may seem like a complicated drink to the people who’ve never actually tried it. This is because it has a combination of flavors that most people might not think go together. However, Merlot wonderfully blends these flavors together, making it a must-try wine. Known for its boisterous cherry fruit flavors and refined tannin texture, Merlot is the most popular wine in America’s western growing regions.

It shares some similarity with Cabernet Sauvignon regarding its taste profile but has its own unique flavor. Merlot is a medium-weighted wine and is readily available everywhere in America, making it a great introduction to the world of red wines. It also makes a great food pairing with various food, including roasted turkey, steaks, lambs, duck, nuts, tomatoes, Quattro formaggi pizza, and even some desserts.

· Riesling

Originating from Rhine Valley in Germany, Riesling is the flagship wine of the country. At first, this white wine feels sweet and acidic. But the flavors are soon balanced out with honey flavors and a significant minerality. It has a lighter body that is heavily influenced by the soil and is typically both dry and sweet. Many flavors, including citrus, peach, nectarine, and hints of herbals and floral flavors, make up this wine. It compliments all kinds of meats from chicken to duck, pork, turkey, beef, mutton, and ever cured meat. It also pairs well with spicy dishes and cheese fondue.

However, be warned: Riesling tends to be a wine that people either love or hate. So if this is your introduction to wines and you end up disliking it, don’t give up, as you may find other wines that suit your taste buds.

· Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc has a grassy flavor that distinguishes it from other types of white wine. While it tends to be sweeter as compared to other white wines, it is also typically more crisp and dry. A citrus flavor overpowers this wine, but it also combines several different unique flavors, including grapefruit, passion fruit, kiwi, and honeydew. A slight taste of herbs can also be experienced in Sauvignon Blanc. When aged in oak, it can develop flavors of spice and vanilla. It pairs well with chicken, fish, pork, veal, goat cheese, and Gruyere.

· Syrah

A dark and rich red wine, Syrah contains notes of dark fruits, such as blueberry and black plum, as well as peppers and spices. This flavorful profile makes it a particularly great companion of spiced foods and exotic spices, as both the wine and the food bring out each other’s flavor. It is also perfect for hearty and rich meat dishes, especially venison. Better known as Shiraz in Australia, it is the most popular wine in the country.

When you’re always on the lookout for new kinds of wine, you’ll discover that the types of wines that exist around the world can go beyond your imagination. So next time you are at a bar or a fancy restaurant, opt for something new and interesting – like from this list – instead of sticking to the same old drink every single time.