The Seven Wine Wonders Of The World
Seven is a pretty common number when it comes to categorizing things. There are the seven wonders of the world, both ancient and modern, the seven deadly sins, the seven samurai - and their American counterpart, the magnificent seven - the seven habits of highly successful people and of course, lucky number seven. So why should wine be any different?
The seven noble grapes are considered the bedrock from which all winemaking is based. These grapes - Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah - all got their start in France and have since been transplanted around the world. Four of these - Cab and Merlot in the red world and Chardonnay and Sauvignon in the white - are four of the five most popular varietals in the world when it comes both to cases sold and acres planted. They are hardy grapes that can grow in a variety of climates and conditions, age consistently, and are strong enough to drink on their own and also blend well with other varietals.
The remaining three are also popular but tend to be more demanding in where they can be grown well. Pinot Noir, especially, is one of the most notorious grapes to grow. However, when done well, it is also one of the most exquisite and sublime wines out there.
Of course, this is not to say these are the only wines worth drinking. They say history is written by the victors, and wines popularity is due primarily to the efforts of the French. They were - and continue to be - the country most associated with wine as its national beverage and as such, they did the most to codify wine, turning it from something casually made for personal consumption into a marketable beverage with a perceived value.
Today, experts argue over just how many different varietals are out there, with estimates ranging from five to eighteen thousand. With small batch wineries becoming more popular and commercial wineries now existing in all 50 states, shelves at the local wine stores are being filled with grapes that people may never heard of before. While this is good news for people who already love and enjoy wine, when it comes to introducing new people to the wine lifestyle, it is best to start with the seven noble grapes for one simple reason: availability.
It does no good to be introduced to a wine, love it, and then find that it is impossible to find. Just as important to remember is the fact that these wines are popular for a reason. They have a universal appeal and can be enjoyed either on their own or as part of a meal. Ask any wine lover today what was the first varietal that got them interested in wine and they will probably tell a tale that starts with one of the seven noble grapes.
About the Author
Jack Terry is a freelance writer who has been covering food and beverages for 20 years. http://www.wineclubworld.com
Tell others about
this page:
Comments? Questions? Email Here