Perplexed by Pinot Noir and confused by Chenin Blanc? Here are some of the most typical characteristics for you to look out for in the more widely available grape varieties and wines.
Red grapes
Grenache
Black fruits and spices, intensely coloured and often high in alcohol.
Merlot
Plums, damsons and spice, usually soft and supple, especially when from Chile.
Pinot Noir
Strawberries and earthy farmyard notes; reaches perfection in Burgundy.
Sangiovese
Cherry, plum and leather, with crisp, chalky tannins.
Syrah or Shiraz
Pepper, black cherry and even olives; spicy and rich, with firm tannins.
Zinfandel
Rich, raisiny black fruit; high in alcohol.
White grapes
Chardonnay
Grown widely around the world; can range from citrus and minerals to ripe tropical fruit and buttery notes.
Chenin Blanc
Green apples, pears and wet wool, and can get quite honeyed with age.
Riesling
Scented lemon and lime, can reach petrol notes with age.
Sauvignon Blanc
At its best in New Zealand and the Loire, nettley and asparagus, with gooseberry and sometimes passion-fruit characters.
Viognier
Very aromatic, with peaches, apricots and honeysuckle.