As a Wine Beginner method is everything!. I’ve discovered a very interesting book that takes on a new approach to the Tasting Technique: instead of using a 3 phase-related learning system (sight-smell-taste) it uses a 3 level-related learning system in which we taste different groups (levels) of grapes. The book begins with the well-known, classic grapes and then moves on to other grapes that are not so widely spread, but incredibly interesting. The author also proposes different exercises of wine tasting for each level.
Wine Wisdom: A Complete Wine-tasting Course
by Susy Atkins (2004) – @SusyAtkins
So according to the book, the First Level of tasting is: understanding the 6 grape varieties. These classic grapes are widely spread and thane produced quality, award-winning wines for many years.
Below , they are represented with their most common characteristics and differentiated types. For further information, see the Expected Characteristics of each variety located in this wine blog.
Chardonnay
- France: Chablis, Côte d’Or, Mâconna
- USA:California (Carneros, Central Coast, Napa Valley, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast/Valley)
- Australia: Victoria, Padthaway, Adelaide Hills, Western Australia
Riesling
- Germany: Mosel, Rheingau, Rheinhessen, Pfalz, Nahe (Trocken, 1st Crus, QbA, Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese)
- France: Alsace (Grand Cru, Vin d’Alsace)
- Austria: Kamptal, Kremstal, Wachau
- Australia: Clare Valley, Eden Valley (Dry Styles Only)
Sauvignon Blanc
- France: Loire Valley (Central Vineyards), Bordeaux (Pessac-Léognan, Graves)
- USA: California (Napa / Sonoma – Oaked Styles Only)
- New Zealand
Cabernet Sauvignon
- France-Bordeaux: Graves, Médoc (Margaux, Paulliac, St. Estèphe, St. Julien) (Bordeaux AOC to First Growth)
- Australia: Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, Margaret River, McLaren Vale
- Chile-Central Valley: Curicó, Maipo, Maule, Rapel
- USA: California (All Napa, All Sonoma, Central Coast); Washington (Columbia Valley)
Merlot
- France-Bourdeux: Pomerol, St.-Émilion
- USA: California (Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley); Washington (Columbia Valley)
Pinot Noir
- France.Burgundy: Côte d’Or
- USA: California (Anderson Valley, Carneros, Central Coast, Sonoma Coast/Valley); Oregon (Willamette Valley)
- New Zealand: Central Otago, Marlborough, Martinborough