Types of Wine Grapes

The Fundamental Role of Grapes in Wine

The essence of wine lies in the grape

When we talk about wine, we talk about grapes. They are its soul, its origin, and its purest expression. Everything we perceive in a glass from fruity or spicy aromas, light or full body, to deep or delicate color depends directly on the type of grape used.

Additionally, the wine’s structure, that balanced sensation between acidity, tannins, and alcohol, is largely determined by the varietal.

Thousands of varieties, but few stars

Although over 10,000 grape varieties are registered worldwide, only a fraction of them are commonly used in the production of quality wines. Among the best-known are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Tempranillo, to name a few.

Choosing the right grape by taste and occasion

Knowing the different grape types is essential to fully enjoy a tasting experience. In places like Viñas de la ERRE, where each wine faithfully expresses the terroir of Valle de Guadalupe, understanding what varietal you're tasting allows you to choose more confidently and meaningfully whether it’s for a special dinner, a gathering with friends, or an intimate celebration.

Key Characteristics of Wine Grapes

Composition, Flavor, and Terroir

Wine grapes, scientifically known as Vitis vinifera, are the foundation of virtually all quality wines enjoyed today. This species, native to Europe and Western Asia, has proven to strike the perfect balance between flavor, structure, and climate adaptability, making it the preferred choice of winemakers around the world.

Each part of the grape contributes to the wine’s personality. The sugar in the pulp is converted into alcohol during fermentation. The tannins, mainly from the skin and seeds, bring astringency and longevity to the wine. Acidity, another vital component, balances sweetness and refreshes the palate.

The skin is also responsible for key traits such as aroma, texture, and of course, the wine's color. Moreover, the terroir that combination of soil, climate, and altitude where the grape is grown greatly influences its final profile.

Main Types of Red Wine Grapes

Most Common Red Grapes Worldwide

The world of red wine is dominated by a select group of grapes that are widely cultivated due to their versatility and quality.

Many of these grapes are used to craft premium wines that showcase complexity, balance, and excellent aging potential.

Here are some of the most prominent:

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Originally from Bordeaux, this grape is famous for producing intense and structured wines. Its typical notes include blackcurrant, green bell pepper, and spices. It pairs beautifully with red meats, lamb, and aged cheeses.

• Tempranillo: Also known as Tinta del País or Tinta de Toro, it’s Spain’s most iconic variety. Ideal for aging, it stands out for its balance between fruit, acidity, and oak.

• Merlot: Smooth and fruity, it’s an excellent choice for those just starting to explore the world of wine. Its cherry, plum, and vanilla notes make it ideal for pasta, poultry, and cold cuts.

• Syrah/Shiraz: Produces bold, dark-colored wines with aromas of black pepper, blackberry, and licorice. Highly appreciated by those who prefer spicy wines.

• Malbec: Although French in origin, it has found its fullest expression in Argentina. Its wines offer structure, rounded tannins, and notes of plum, cocoa, and tobacco.

• Garnacha (Grenache): Fruity and versatile, very popular in Spain and southern France. Produces wines with good acidity, ideal for both young reds and rosés.

• Pinot Noir: Delicate and difficult to cultivate, but highly valued for its elegance and complexity. Its wines are light, with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and earthy notes.

Recommended Red Grape for Beginners

For those taking their first steps into red wine, it's best to start with smooth, approachable varietals. A young red wine is often a great choice, as it typically offers vibrant fruit flavors, soft tannins, and a refreshing profile that's easy to enjoy.

Most Well-Known White Wine Grape Varieties

Aromatic, Dry, or Sweet: Which One to Choose?

White grapes offer a surprising range of aromas, flavors, and styles. From dry and refreshing options to floral and sweet wines, there’s a perfect white grape for every palate and occasion.

And if you're looking for a special place to celebrate with friends or family, many wineries also offer event space rentals, combining scenic beauty, fine wine, and warm hospitality in one unforgettable setting.

Below are some of the most renowned globally:

• Chardonnay: One of the most versatile white grapes. It can produce fresh wines with citrus notes when unoaked, or more complex wines with butter, vanilla, and nut aromas when aged in barrels. Pairs well with seafood, creamy chicken, and light pasta dishes.

• Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp, acidic, and herbaceous, this variety stands out with notes of freshly cut grass, lime, and tropical fruits. Perfect with ceviche, green salads, goat cheese, and seafood.

• Albariño: Native to Galicia, this grape yields wines with marked acidity, citrus notes, and a slight salinity that reflects its Atlantic origin. Ideal with white fish, clams, octopus, and seafood rice dishes.

• Riesling: Highly appreciated for its ability to produce both dry and sweet wines, always with high acidity and aromas of green apple, peach, and honey. Pairs well with Asian food, spicy dishes, or sweet-and-sour recipes.

• Gewürztraminer & Chenin Blanc: Both are excellent for those who enjoy floral wines with a touch of sweetness. The former brings intense aromas of rose, lychee, and spices; the latter can range from dry to very sweet, with notes of apple, beeswax, and white flowers. Great with foie gras, fruit-based desserts, and blue cheeses.

Grapes for Sparkling and Rosé Wines

Grape Selection Defines Sparkling Wine Style

The magic of a good sparkling wine begins with grape selection. Each emblematic style around the world is based on specific varieties that define its character, acidity, and aroma.

• Champagne: The classic French trilogy Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier results in elegant wines with notes of green apple, brioche, and almond. Chardonnay provides freshness, Pinot Noir adds body, and Meunier brings a fruity touch.

• Cava: This Spanish sparkling wine is mostly made with Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada native varieties that yield dry wines with good acidity and a more herbal and citrus profile.

• Prosecco: In Italy, Prosecco is primarily made from the Glera grape, known for its freshness, light bubbles, and aromas of pear, melon, and white flowers. An ideal sparkling for casual celebrations.

• Muscat (Moscatel): Widely used for sweet, aromatic sparkling wines, this grape stands out for its intense floral and fruity notes. Perfect for desserts or as an aperitif.

Rosés with Personality

Rosé wines owe their color and aromatic profile to brief contact with red grape skins, bringing freshness without losing character. The most commonly used varieties include Garnacha, Tempranillo, Merlot, and Syrah. Each offers distinct hues from pale Provençal rosés to more intense ones with vibrant aromas of strawberry, cherry, or flowers.

The winemaking method whether saignée or direct press directly affects the color intensity and aromas of the wine.

Factors That Determine Varietal Selection

Climate, Soil, and Wine Style

Varietal selection isn’t just based on the winemaker’s or market’s preference; it’s closely linked to terroir, the natural combination of factors like climate, soil, and altitude that determine how a grape will express itself in a given region.

Exploring this diversity not only broadens your palate but also reveals the refined nuances that define high-end wines crafted with precision and terroir expression in mind.

For instance, Pinot Noir, known for its delicacy, can develop very different profiles depending on climate and soil conditions.

Similarly, Malbec expresses unique qualities depending on where it is grown, showing how terroir influences its aromas, tannins, and overall personality.

If you’re interested in experiencing this firsthand, we invite you to explore the Wine Route in Valle de Guadalupe, where you can visit vineyards like Viñas de la ERRE and see how these grapes come to life in every glass.

Tips for a Great Tasting

How to Identify Grapes During a Wine Tasting

One of the most rewarding skills when tasting wine is being able to identify the grape variety you're tasting. While it takes practice, there are certain indicators to guide you both on the nose and the palate.

Aromatically, white grapes like Sauvignon Blanc often offer herbaceous and citrus notes, while a barrel-aged Chardonnay may reveal buttery and vanilla undertones.

In red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon reveals itself through aromas of green bell pepper, blackcurrant, and spices, while Syrah is recognized by its intensity, black fruits, and pepper notes.

For a more personalized and educational approach, some vineyards including Viñas de la ERRE offer private tasting sessions where each wine is explored in greater depth with expert guidance.

On the palate, body, texture, and acidity are also key clues. Some varieties have more pronounced tannins, like Tempranillo, while others, like Merlot, are smoother and rounder.

During a wine tasting, these differences become much more evident, allowing you to appreciate the unique character of each varietal.

Choose Your Ideal Grape and Live the Experience

At Viñas de la ERRE, we believe there's no single way to enjoy wine, but there are many ways to discover which varietal speaks your sensory language.

That’s why we invite you to try different grape types, let yourself be surprised by their aromas, textures, and nuances, and allow each glass to tell its story.

Each variety represents a different universe: some will wrap you in their softness, others will win you over with their power or vibrant freshness. What matters most is that you take the time to explore, open your mind and palate to new experiences.

And there’s no better place to do that than where the wine is born. We await you in Valle de Guadalupe to share an unforgettable wine tourism experience among vineyards, friends, and guided tastings. Here, every sip is an opportunity to get to know yourself better and enjoy what you truly love.