Each month, we'd like to share some interesting facts about wines and grape varieties. Hope you enjoy and, who knows, maybe learn something new.
The Flavors of Wine from American Cellars of Wine Club
Certain flavors and aromas can suggest the age or varietal make-up of wines. Knowing these generalities can help make you a "star" in blind wine tastings or help you impress your friends!
Some examples follow:
~ An impression of pepper is a common characteristic in Zinfandel and Syrah.
~ Toast is associated with Chardonnay and Semillon, and also can be a sign that the wine was aged in new oak barrels
~ Nutty nuances, walnut or hazelnut are common in white Burgundy.
~ Peach and apricot notes are found in many bottlings of Voignier and Pinot Blanc.
~ Citrus flavors, lemon and lime, are quite common in Australian Riesling and French Sauvignon Blanc.
~ Soft red fruits like strawberry, cherry and red currant typically equate with Pinot Noir.
~ Chocolate is most commonly recognized in full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
~ Vanilla is a sign of oak aging, particularly noticeable in Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc/Fume Blanc.
~ Raspberry is the defining characteristic of Rhone reds, particularly those with a healthy dollop of Syrah.
~ Butter is the impression that connects many Chardonnays, whether New World or Old World.
~ Mint and eucalyptus are common qualities of Cabernet Sauvignon, especially those from California or Australia.
~ Red wines often have fruit aromas you'll recognize, like, blackberry, blueberry, boysenberry, cherry, cranberry, plum, raspberry and strawberry.
~ Among the familiar fruit aromas you'll find in white wines are apple, apricot, banana, coconut, grapefruit, lemon, lime, peach, pear and pineapple.
~ Remember the only person who knows what tastes good is YOU, so drink the wine that you enjoy!
