CONTENTS
- Characteristics of wine grapes
- Adequate chemical composition
- 2.- Distinctive aroma and flavor
- 3.- Good size and shape of the cluster.
- Adequate skin
- 5.- Optimum maturity
- Wine grape varieties
As you could learn in our article about the grape harvest in different regions of the world , winemaking goes beyond picking grapes, subjecting them to a vinification process and bottling them, to make a good red wine. red, white or rosé wineThere is a vast knowledge in the field as well as in the wineries to make a good red, white or rosé wine.
Agronomists and winemakers must have sufficient knowledge to distinguish grape varieties and know which are ideal for producing wines according to the characteristics of the climate and soil in which their vineyards are located.
In this article, we are going to tell you about the variety of wine grapes, exploring their origins, their main characteristics and how they influence the final result of our glasses. So if you want to know more about it, pour yourself a wine and continue reading.
What is vitis vinifera ?
First of all, we must clarify that within the universe of grapes that exist, the grapes of the vitis vinifera variety are the most common. vitis viniferaalso known as wine grapes, i.e. the specific variety of grapes cultivated mainly for the production of wine.
These grapes have particular characteristics that make them suitable for the production of quality wines, since they have the right balance between sugars, acidity and tannins, compounds that influence the taste, aroma and structure of the wine.
Characteristics of wine grapes
There are thousands of wine grape varieties around the world, each with its own unique characteristics of flavor, aroma and adaptation to different climates and wine regions, but here we will share with you some of the basic characteristics of wine grapes:
Adequate chemical composition
Wine grapes must have a balanced chemical composition that includes adequate levels of different compounds such as sugars, which provide the alcohol potential during fermentation, while acidity contributes to the freshness and stability of the wine, and tannins provide structure and aging capacity.
2.- Distinctive aroma and flavor
Each wine grape variety has a particular aroma and flavor profile. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon may have notes of black currant and green bell pepper, while Chardonnay may exhibit aromas of apple and white flowers. These aromatic and flavor attributes are essential in defining the character of the wine and can vary depending on the terroir in which they are grown.
3.- Good size and shape of the cluster.
The shape and size of grape bunches are important for winemaking. Bunches should be compact and of adequate size to facilitate harvesting and prevent the formation of mold and disease.
Adequate skin
Also in our article about the harvest we commented that the skin of the grapes is a factor for harvesting as it must be thick enough to protect the grapes during growth and fermentation, but not so thick that it negatively affects the extraction of color and aromas during maceration.
5.- Optimum maturity
The ripeness of the grapes is crucial. They must be harvested at the right time to ensure that sugars, acidity and other compounds are at the optimum point for winemaking. Improper ripeness can result in unbalanced wines.
Wine grape varieties
Some of the most famous wine grapes include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc, among many others. These varieties are used in the production of a wide range of Mexican wines. Mexican and foreign and foreign wines, from structured reds to fresh whites and sparkling wines, and each contributes its own distinctive qualities to the final product.
Here we are going to tell you about some of the grape varieties that we use at Vinos El Cielo:
1.- Sauvignon blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is native to the Loire Valley region of France, but is grown all over the world. This type of grape produces fresh, dry and aromatic wines, with notes of citrus, herbs, freshly cut grass and sometimes mineral hints.
It should be noted that Sauvignon Blanc wines are generally consumed young to appreciate their freshness and liveliness. They are an excellent choice to accompany seafood, fish and light dishes.
2.- Chardonnay
Chardonnay originates from the Burgundy region of France and is one of the most iconic grape varieties of this wine region. It has been successfully planted in many wine regions around the world, from California to Australia and Chile.
Chardonnay wines can have a wide range of flavors and aromas. Depending on factors such as climate, soil and winemaking techniques, Chardonnay wines can offer notes of apple, pear, peach, pineapple, citrus, and when aged in barrel, they develop notes of vanilla, butter and toast.
Chardonnays not aged in oak are characterized by their freshness and fresh fruit flavors. They are ideal as aperitifs and pairings with light dishes such as seafood and salads. While oak-aged Chardonnays tend to be richer and fuller-bodied and are suitable for more substantial dishes, such as roast poultry and creamy pasta dishes.
3.- Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc also originates from the Loire Valley in France and is known for its versatility in the production of dry, semi-dry, sweet and sparkling wines .
Chenin Blanc wines vary in style from dry with aromas of apple and pear to sweet with notes of honey and apricot. They have a natural acidity that makes them very refreshing.
Unlike Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc is known for its ability to age and improve with time. The dry wines are ideal as aperitifs or to accompany poultry and seafood dishes, while the sweet ones are perfect for desserts and cheeses.
4.- Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon, on the other hand, is native to the Bordeaux region of France and is also the most cultivated grape variety of vitis vinifera in the world. This grape produces red wines with body and structure.
Cabernet Sauvignon wines typically have aromas of black fruits such as black currant and plum, as well as notes of spice, tobacco and often show a hint of vanilla and oak when aged in oak barrels. They can improve over time, developing smoother sensations and more complex aromas as they age in bottle.
5.- Merlot
Merlot originates from the Bordeaux region of France and has gained great popularity thanks to its smoothness and versatility. Merlot wines tend to be soft and fruity, with notes of red fruits such as plum, cherry and blackberry. Merlot tends to have softer tannins compared to other red grape varieties, which gives it a silky texture in the mouth.
6.- Malbec
Although the Malbec variety has its roots in France, it is Argentina where it has reached its maximum expression and popularity. The Mendoza region is especially known for its wines made from the Malbec grape.
They are known for their aromas of black fruits such as blackberries and plums, with hints of spice, violets and often earthy or mineral notes. They tend to have moderate tannins, making them accessible and appealing to a wide audience.
7.- Tempranillo
Tempranillo is a red grape variety widely grown in Spain and is the main grape used in the production of high quality red wines in many wine regions of that country. It is also grown in other parts of the world, such as Portugal, where it is known as Tinta Roriz or Aragonez, and in some regions of the Americas, such as Mexico and the United States.
Tempranillo wines tend to be versatile and pair well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, cured meats, cheeses, paella and tomato-based dishes.
8- Syrah
Syrah is a red grape variety known for producing red wines that are complex in aromas. Wines made from Syrah grapes are known for their deep, dark color, with intense aromas of dark fruits such as blackberries, blueberries and plums, along with notes of black pepper, spices, and even floral and herbaceous notes.
In addition, they tend to be highly appreciated wines with an interesting production spectrum ranging from smooth and elegant wines to more intense and tannic wines, depending on the region and winemaking practices.
If you found today's article useful, don't forget to share it on your social networks and stay tuned to our blog for more information on winemaking and more secrets of this beverage.
