You don?t need to be a master sommelier to understand wine varieties. Red wines include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Zinfandel, and the newly popular Pinot noir. On the White side, the most popular are Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, and Rieslings. The differences can be subtle, obvious and sometimes varying. You can instantly […]The post Introduction to Wine Varieties: A Beginner’s Guide to Wine appeared first on Pursuitist.

You don?t need to be a master sommelier to understand wine varieties. Red wines include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Zinfandel, and the newly popular Pinot noir. On the White side, the most popular are Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, and Rieslings.The differences can be subtle, obvious and sometimes varying. You can instantly fall in love with some wines. Others you may learn to enjoy over time. It?s subjective and depends on your sense of adventure.Cabernet Sauvignon is a red high in tannin, resulting in a more heavy, fragrant drinking experience. Not a light wine, usually containing a smoky, peppery flavor. Savor it over a long meal. As this wine does get better with age, select a bottle that is at least 10 years old. Merlot is not as strong compared to Cab. It?s a mellow and fruity variety. Take a sniff to discover touches of plums, raspberries and currants.Lately, I?ve been enjoying wonderful Malbec?s from Argentina. Affordable and delicious. Dark and mellow, easy to drink. A full...