There are many grape varieties, but there are only 10 wines that are most popular in the United States. Below is a brief description:
Popular white wines
Chardonnay:
Chardonnay, a medium-bodied white wine, is widely grown worldwide but is still America’s most loved wine variety. Chardonnays that have been aged for at least a year are known for their buttery mouthfeel. Citrus aromas, spice and vanilla, are combined with crisp fruit flavours such as apple and pear. For a perfect pairing, try Chardonnay with chicken dishes or creamy sauces.
Riesling:
Riesling, Germany’s flagship wine, is a Rhine Valley-grown grape. Riesling starts sweet and acidic but then balances out with honey flavours. It also has a lot of minerality. Riesling pairs well with rich, spicy Asian dishes or pork.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio, an Italian white wine classic, is a great choice. This wine can be described as dry, light and refreshing, with fresh fruit flavours such as apple or pear. Another method of cultivating grapes produces medium-bodied wines with floral aromas and a hint of minerality. Both styles can be considered one wine. However, Pinot Gris is more commonly used for the latter style. Both Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio pair well with seafood, particularly shellfish.
Sauvignon Blanc:
Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine with citrus notes and grassy aromas. It is light, dry, and crisp. The wine also has vanilla and spice flavours when aged in oak. Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with grilled vegetables and chicken, but it is also great with scallops and other shellfish.
Red Wines in Demand
Cabernet Sauvignon:
Cabernet Sauvignon, the jewel of Napa Valley. Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine. It can be described as robust and rich. Dark fruit flavours are often combined with spices and other earthy scents, most commonly in French oak. A juicy steak or any other type of red meat is the perfect pairing for a glass Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a light- to medium-bodied red wine that grows in cooler climates. Pinot Noir is described as fruity and smooth. It has a lot of cherry aromas and hints of spices and earthiness. The best Pinot Noir has a long and lingering finish. Pinot Noir is best paired with wild game and veal.
Syrah:
Syrah red wine is bold and full-bodied. The varietal is known for its distinctive dark fruits, spice, and pepper notes. Shiraz is the Australian style of Syrah. It is sweeter and more jam-like than the “Old World”. Both are rich in fruit flavours and remarkably complex. Syrah is great for rich and hearty meat dishes, especially venison.
Zinfandel:
Zinfandel has been identified as one of America’s only indigenous grape varieties. This versatile wine is only grown in California. Zinfandel is most commonly aged in American oak. This gives the ripe, jam-like fruit flavours an earthy, spicy flavour. Zinfandel, which packs a powerful punch, is one of the most alcoholic wines. Zinfandel is great with many foods, but it’s best when paired with grilled or smoked meats.
Malbec:
Malbec was originally made in France. However, it has been popularized in Argentina by the Mendoza Region. The Malbec is a deep-coloured, full-bodied wine with dark berry flavours and moderate tannins. Malbec pairs well with steaks and other grilled meats.
Merlot:
Merlot, a very popular wine in America’s west growing regions, remains one of the most prominent Bordeaux grapes. Merlot is similar to Cabernet Sauvignon but more fruit-forward. Smooth tannins and spice notes are evidence of oak-ageing and enhance red fruit aromas and flavours. A hamburger, or more exotically, a duck or lamb paired with Merlot, is a great pairing.
Wine is a fascinating beverage because of the many variations it offers. These wine types are the most common in American wine-serving establishments. However, there are many other great varieties. We recommend that you have a general idea of the characteristics you are looking for in wine before you start to look at other types.