Understanding Types of Red Wine for Collectors
Updated
Understanding the diverse types of red wine is crucial for collectors. It matters when navigating the auction market and managing their cellars. Dominant grape varieties and the regions of cultivation primarily define red wines. Together those two things dictate a wine's characteristic profile and aging potential. Each type offers distinct qualities shaped by its origin. That runs from the structured blends of Bordeaux to the nuanced single-varietal expressions of Burgundy. The International Standard for the Labelling of Wines, published by OIV, notes that "varietal name" and "type of wine" are optional information on wine labels. Knowing these distinctions therefore matters beyond basic labeling. This guide will help you identify key red wine types and their regional classifications. It informs your decisions on what to hold and when to open.
What are the primary red wine types from France's classic regions?
France's classic regions, Bordeaux and Burgundy, offer two distinct philosophies for red wine production. Both centre on specific grape varieties and intricate classification systems. These regions are foundational for understanding many types of red wine.
In Bordeaux, the 1855 Official Classification ranked wines from First to Fifth Growths. Nearly all red wines on the list originate from the Médoc region. Château Haut-Brion from Graves is the exception. This classification system focuses on châteaux, not individual vineyards. It has seen only two significant changes since 1855: the addition of Cantemerle as a Fifth Growth in 1856 came first. The second was the elevation of Château Mouton Rothschild from a Second Growth to a First Growth in 1973. The primary red grapes of Bordeaux are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon, originating in France, covered 262,000 hectares globally in 2004. In 2004, Merlot, also from France, covered 260,000 hectares. Cabernet Franc, from France's Loire Valley, covered 36,000 hectares in France in the same year. These grapes are often blended to create the region's renowned claret via the 1855 list.
Burgundy, in contrast, is known for its terroir-oriented classifications. Specific vineyards or regions bear a classification regardless of the producer. The region has a higher number of appellations d'origine contrôlée (AOCs) than any other French region. Red Burgundy wines are predominantly made from Pinot Noir grapes. Beaujolais uses Gamay grapes, recognizes it as part of the Burgundy wine region. Pinot Noir, a French grape, is the focus for the majority of red wine production in the Côte d'Or. Regional appellations in Burgundy, from regional to Grand Cru, generally permit blending. Up to 15% of white grape varieties is allowed, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris. This practice is not widespread today, according to the INAO.
Burgundy's classification system includes Grand Cru, Premier Cru, village appellations, and regional appellations. We outline them in descending order of quality. Grand Cru wines represent 2% of production and come from the best vineyard sites in the Côte d'Or. They are typically meant for cellaring for a minimum of five to seven years. The best examples keep for over 15 years. Premier Cru wines make up 12% of production and come from high-quality sites. They often benefit from three to five years of aging. Village appellation wines account for 36% of production and can generally be consumed two to four years after release. Regional appellation wines, such as AOC Bourgogne, are intended for immediate consumption, typically within three years after the vintage date. Understanding these classifications is key to appreciating the region's wines and their drink windows.
What are the key red grape varieties from Italy and Spain?
Italy and Spain contribute significantly to the world of fine red wine. Each has distinct flagship grape varieties and regional expressions.
In Italy, Nebbiolo is a prominent red grape, primarily cultivated in Piedmont. Nebbiolo covered 5,100 hectares in Italy in 2000. This grape is known for producing age-worthy wines. For example, the wines of Nebbiolo via Barolo DOCG are a prime expression of this variety. Another important Italian red grape is Sangiovese, the backbone of many Tuscan wines. Sangiovese covered 63,000 hectares in Italy in 2000.
Spain's most significant red grape is Tempranillo, which covered 170,000 hectares globally in 2004. Tempranillo is the key grape in the renowned Tempranillo via Rioja tiers. Other notable red grapes in Italy include Montepulciano, primarily found in Abruzzo. Nero d'Avola is a significant grape in Sicily. Spain also features Graciano, cultivated in Rioja and covering 395 hectares in Spain. Garnacha (Grenache) covered 82,300 hectares in Spain in 2000.
How do other major red grape varieties compare?
Beyond the classic regions, several other red grape varieties contribute to the diverse landscape of fine wine. Each has unique characteristics and prominent regions of cultivation.