The wine world is like a colorful treasure trove, with each region producing unique flavors through its distinct grape varieties and winemaking techniques. For newcomers to the world of wine, selecting a favorite from the myriad of options can indeed be quite a challenge. Today, let’s explore together those wines that can be considered classic “CP combinations,” and set the course for your wine journey!
● Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux Blend
Located in southwestern France, Bordeaux is known for its typical wine style called the “Bordeaux Blend,” which involves the blending of two or more grape varieties. Strictly speaking, The Bordeaux Blend involves fermenting different grape varieties separately before finally blending them before bottling.
Bordeaux Blend can be further divided into Bordeaux Blend red wine and Bordeaux Blend white wine. The former is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, with possible additions of Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carmenere. Bordeaux Blend white wine, on the other hand, is mainly composed of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, blended with small amounts of Muscadelle, and occasionally with varieties like Sauvignon Gris, Ugni Blanc, Merlot Blanc, and Colombard.
● Burgundy, France: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Situated in the eastern part of central France, Burgundy lies just two hours away from Paris by car. The region’s wines benefit from a combination of Mediterranean, continental, and oceanic climates, resulting in unparalleled flavors. The primary grape varieties cultivated in Burgundy are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Pinot Noir wines showcase unique elegance, while Chardonnay wines offer a full-bodied palate, ranging from robust to delicate, with great aging potential.
● Rioja, Spain: Tempranillo
Located in the northern region of Spain near the Atlantic Ocean, Rioja is influenced by both Atlantic and Mediterranean climates. With moderate temperatures and slightly higher rainfall, Rioja provides ideal conditions for the cultivation and growth of Tempranillo. Tempranillo wines are characterized by a medium to full body, moderate acidity, balanced and elegant palate, with rich aromas of red berries, violets, and licorice.
● Barolo, Italy: Nebbiolo
Barolo wine is known as the “king of wines” in Italy, gaining fame as far back as the Middle Ages, and it’s also one of Italy’s earliest DOCG wines. The Barolo region primarily cultivates Nebbiolo, so almost all wines from this area are made from this grape variety. Barolo wines are rich and aromatic, with flavors of black fruits, violets, and dried roses, and they have significant aging potential. Complex Barolo wines may also exhibit subtle hints of truffle, licorice, leather, and dry spices.
● Mosel, Germany: Riesling
Mosel is the most famous of the 13 wine regions in Germany and is renowned worldwide for its Riesling wines. The climate in Mosel is cool, and the vineyards are often situated on steep riverbanks, allowing for ample sunlight absorption and the production of high-quality white grapes, especially Riesling. While wines from different vineyards in Mosel each have their own character, they share common traits: pale color, rich aroma, light-bodied, refreshing acidity, and an overall elegant and refined style.
