What is a grape variety?

A grape variety is a type of grape used to produce wine. It is the raw material of wine: it influences much of its color, aromas, structure, and style.

There are two main families of grape varieties: white and red . Contrary to what one might think, the color of wine does not depend solely on the color of the grape, but primarily on how it is vinified. A red grape can therefore produce a white wine, as is the case for many Champagnes made from Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier.

Worldwide, there are nearly 10,000 grape varieties , each with its own characteristics. Some produce light and fruity wines, while others produce more powerful, tannic, or aromatic wines.

In France, around a hundred grape varieties are cultivated, but about twenty of them alone account for nearly 80% of the planted area . Among the best known are Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin.

The choice of grape variety is never left to chance. The winemaker selects the varieties best suited to their terroir, climate, and the style of wine they wish to produce. It is precisely thanks to the diversity of French climates that we find so many different grape varieties from one region to another.

France is also renowned for its blended wines , which combine several grape varieties to achieve balance and aromatic complexity. Conversely, many countries emphasize single-varietal wines , made from a single grape variety.

Over time, some grape varieties have even become true symbols of their country. Malbec is now inseparable from Argentina, Carménère has become the emblem of Chile, while Pinotage , created in South Africa, alone represents the country's wine identity.

Understanding grape varieties is the first step towards a better understanding of wine. Behind every bottle lies a grape variety that tells a story, expresses a terroir, and offers a unique range of aromas.