A green-skinned grape variety used in the production of white wine, Chardonnay is an important component of many sparkling wines around the world, including Champagne.

The grape itself is very neutral, with its flavours influenced by oak and terroir (the landscape and geology in which it is grown). Cool climates produce a medium to light body with green plum, apple, and pear flavours. Warmer places create more citrus, peach, and melon tastes, while very warm regions bring out fig and tropical fruit notes.

Cabernet Sauvignon 

A chance crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France, Cabernet Sauvignon is now the most widely planted wine grape variety in the world.

In cooler climates, it produces wines with blackcurrant, green bell pepper notes, mint and cedar notes. Wine from moderate climates sees blackcurrant, black cherry and black olive notes, while in very hot climates the current flavours can become ‘jammy’.

Malbec

Primarily a red wine grape variety grown in South West France, Malbec is increasingly known as an Argentine varietal wine and is grown around the world. It ripens mid-season and can bring deep colour, ample tannin, and a plum-like flavour to claret blends.

Merlot

The name Merlot is thought to come from merle, the French name for the blackbird.

Made across the globe, there are two main styles of Merlot wine. The late-harvested ‘International style’ produces full-bodied, high-alcohol, inky purple wines with intense, plum and blackberry fruit.

Pinot Grigio

This white wine grape variety with a grey-blue fruit is thought to be a mutant clone of the Pinot Noir variety.

Grown around the world, the wine’s flavours range from ripe tropical fruit notes of melon and mango, to some botrytis-influenced flavours (also known as ‘Noble Rot’, botrytis is a fungus that dries out the grapes, thus concentrating the sugar and flavours.