Grape Varieties Explained

How the principal wine grapes taste, where they grow, and what to pair. Written for WSET students. Updated 2026.

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Red grapes

The bold, tannic red behind Bordeaux and Napa.

Softer, plummy red, Bordeaux’s smooth partner.

Light, elegant red from Burgundy.

Peppery, powerful red, called Syrah or Shiraz.

Juicy, high-alcohol red, the base of southern Rhône blends.

Italy’s savoury red, the grape of Chianti.

Spain’s signature red, the grape of Rioja.

Argentina’s bold, inky red.

The versatile white, from crisp Chablis to buttery oaked styles.

Zesty, aromatic white with grassy, citrus notes.

High-acid aromatic white, from bone dry to lusciously sweet.

Light and crisp as Pinot Grigio, richer as Pinot Gris.