Sangiovese
Sangiovese (and all the other names the Italians call it by) is the grape that makes Chianti. It produces wines that have lots of acidity, plenty of earthiness and red fruit flavors.
Gamay
One of the lightest red grapes, Gamay is the grape that makes Beaujolais. While Beaujolais Noveau is well known for being alcoholic grape juice, there are many great Beaujolais wines that are delicious bistro style wines at very affordable prices.
Rosé
True rosé wines are dry, crisp and delicious. They combine the crisp, refreshing characteristics of a white wine with hints of red wine flavor. Don’t be scared to drink pink!
Champagne
The sparkling wine that all other sparkling wines desire to be, Champagne is made only in France from Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. The end result is a sparkling wine of unparalleled complexity and richness.
Prosecco
Made from Glera grapes, Prosecco is Italy’s great sparkling wine. It’s becoming increasingly popular for its light bubles and crisp flavors.
Syrah
Syrah (or Shiraz) can be full of ripe red fruits when made in warm climates like Australia, or packed with dark fruit and leather notes when produced in cooler climates. Both styles are delicious and great with food!
Malbec
Malbec originated in France but is now best known as Argentina’s signature grape. It produces wines that are velvety smooth with rich fruit flavors.
Merlot
While it’s not quite en vogue, Merlot produces phenomenal red wines that have ripe red fruit flavors plus tannin and structure. Plus, they’re usually more affordable than similar quality Cabernet!
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned grape that produces light red wines. The best Pinot Noirs are fruity, earthy and spicy and very easy to drink!
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cab is king, and for good reason! This grape produces big, full bodied red wines that are a go to for many people. You can find good examples at many price points from $10 to $1,000!
Zinfandel
Originally from Croatia, Zinfandel is now best known as a California grape. It’s full bodied, high alcohol and packed with big fruit flavors.
Grenache
Grenache (or Garnacha) is grown around the Mediterranean and makes light bodied red wines that have plenty of red fruit along with spice notes. These are easy drinking, affordable wines.
Cava
Cava is a sparkling wine made in the South of Spain from a blend of many different grapes. The wine is fruity, refreshing and very affordable!
Pinot Grigio
Known as Pinot Grigio in Italy, and Pinot Gris elsewhere, this is often a lighter white wine with lemon, pear and citrus fruit flavors.
Sauvignon Blanc
Packed with flavors of grass, grapefruit, and other tropical fruit, Sauvignon Blanc is refreshing and delicious!
Chardonnay
Chardonnay can be light and crisp, or rich and full bodied. There are so many different flavors this grape can take on, you’re sure to find one you like.
Riesling
Riesling is an amazing grape that can make delicious sweet wines and delicious dry wines! Dry rieslings are particularly food friendly.
Moscato
Fruity and sweet, Moscatos are a fun wine to drink with friends. Don’t forget an Asti when you feel like bubbles!
Port
A fortified wine that is made by adding brandy to a dry wine. The end result is a deliciously sweet drink that’s perfect for dessert.
Albarino
An underlooked grape, Albarino is best known from Spain, where it makes wines that are full bodied, aromatic and refreshing. If you like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, give this a try!
Tempranillo
You’ll usually see Tempranillo labeled as “Rioja”, because that’s the best region for growing this grape. It produces wines with dark fruit and earthy flavors at great values.