The six grapes worth knowing
Reds: Cabernet Sauvignon (full-bodied, tannic, blackcurrant), Pinot Noir (lighter, elegant, cherry), Merlot (soft, plummy, approachable). Whites: Chardonnay (full-bodied, buttery or crisp depending on oak), Sauvignon Blanc (crisp, aromatic, citrus and grassy), Riesling (aromatic, off-dry to sweet, petrol notes with age). Most wine in the world is made from one of these six grapes or blends of them.
How to taste wine properly
Look (colour and clarity). Swirl (release aromas). Smell twice (first impression then deeper). Taste (acidity, tannin in reds, body, fruit, finish). The finish — how long the flavour lasts after swallowing — is the best indicator of quality. Use our free wine tasting notes sheet to record what you notice.
How to choose a bottle
Region over grape for old-world wines (French and Italian wines are labelled by region — Burgundy means Pinot Noir, Chablis means unoaked Chardonnay). Grape variety for new world wines (Australian, South American, South African wines are labelled by grape). Price: £8–12 is the sweet spot in UK supermarkets — very little quality improvement per pound below £8.
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